Well, it’s Teacher Appreciation Week again. That one week where we recognize the value teachers have that we should be recognizing all year long, but I digress…

So, in keeping with themes from my past blogs during this Teacher Appreciation Week, a thank you to all educators. The value you bring to helping society is always welcomed.

And now, an appreciation and a tribute to a friend who is retiring…

For 34 years, Charlotte Walker has poured her heart, soul, and unmatched intellect into the field of education, leaving an enduring mark on Clinton High School and on generations of students and teachers alike. As a history teacher, she has taught nearly every subject the department offers, with a depth of knowledge and a passion that has made history come alive in her classroom. Currently, excelling in teaching Economics and AP Macroeconomics.

For 16 of those years, she served as department head, leading with a steady hand, quiet strength, and a deep, unwavering support for every teacher under her wing. New and young teachers, especially found in her, a mentor who believed in them from day one. Charlotte made it her mission to support others, always placing herself last.

Beyond the classroom, Charlotte’s leadership showed through the extracurricular programs she championed. For 12 years, she led the mock trial team. She also sponsored the economics trial team and the international summit competition group, both of which regularly placed among the top. Her mentorship helped shape the minds of her students. A master of diplomacy herself, Charlotte is admired not only for her sharp intellect but also for her warmth, patience, and ability to treat every member of the department and Clinton High School as a vital part of the whole. But, being the wise sage she is, never think you could pull something past her. She always knew…

Charlotte has been the epitome of excellence, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the educational mission that the Clinton Public School District welcomes, culminating in this last year as being chosen as Clinton High School’s teacher of the year. Her influence reaches far beyond lesson plans and test scores. She has cultivated a culture of encouragement, integrity, and quiet strength. She has reminded us all what it means to lead not by position but by presence. Also, being a National Board Certified Teacher, she was the touchpoint person and mentor for many who have pursued and earned National Board status at Clinton.

When I first arrived at Clinton, even though I didn’t know Charlotte, she immediately made me feel welcome, even though I was not part of the history department. She extended a genuine friendship, one that both of us will carry far into the future. I will miss the daily dose of Charlotte’s subtle wit and our common thinking ground, especially missing her deep, thoughtful knowledge of Reformed Theology during our Monday morning coffee club Bible study group. We have had many heartfelt conversations and solved most of life’s problems, wishing the world would listen, and her two words at the end of our discussions, “You think?” or telling me, “You’re a good man, Charlie Brown.” I am deeply grateful for the time I’ve spent as an educator alongside her, as I’m sure many of you are as well. Her impact on students’ lives, and on all of ours, is immeasurable. A legacy she leaves.

Education needs more educators like Charlotte Walker because people like Charlotte Walker are extraordinary educators. She is my teaching colleague and, in many ways, a mentor and a confidant. Most importantly, Charlotte is my friend.

As you step into your role today, remember that you are not just an educator and leader but a shaper of the future. Your actions and decisions profoundly impact the lives of those you guide. Go, be the great educator and leader that our future needs.

Remember… Think Leadership and Be For Others…

©2025 J Clay Norton

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