Volume 65, Issue 3
Arcadia High School 180 Campus Drive, Arcadia, CA
THE APACHE The World Is Our Campus
November 2017
Letter from the Editors With the end of the Month of Thanks, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the efforts of those around us, whether they be our dedicated teachers or supportive peers. Amber, Kaitlyn, and Julia
Thank You, Mr. Silverstein
By AMBER CHONG, KAITLYN LIAO, and JULIA LIN
Editors-in-Chief
Arcadia High says a bittersweet goodbye to one of the most influential and inspiring teachers in its history. Mr. Sanford Silverstein, better known as “Sandy” to his colleagues, taught at AHS for over 50 years, mentoring some current teachers himself. A beloved English and ELD teacher, Mr. Silverstein’s optimistic nature touched all those around him. AHS teachers honor his memory and carry on the wisdom that he has passed down. “Sandy was always a champion for a colleague, he was our historian-opening past doors to provide context for future endeavors. He will be missed in our hallways, in our classrooms, and in our hearts.” —Ms. Nicole Zaidi
own money would probably set a national record for anyone in any educational field.” —Ms. Christina Vaughan
student success. As
“It is amazing to think about how many lives Sandy has touched and helped shape in his over 45+ years of teaching. Arcadia High School will not be the same without Sandy. I (and we) will miss him dearly.” —Mr. Barry Lisbin
“When I was still a rookie in teaching, he took me under his wing without hesitation: giving me ideas, coaching me about classroom management, sitting with me through those lengthy parent conferences. He was so generous and passionate about teaching.” —Ms. Mo Rolfe
“He was always so kind and helpful to me, particularly in giving suggestions on my efforts to teach the limited English and Sheltered Science classes. What a pro! He will be sorely missed here at AHS but leaves a legacy of lives touched.” —Mr. Tal Jones
“Sandy was one of my teachers when I was a student here. He was a wonderful teacher, and I particularly enjoyed his ‘Parody and Satire’ English class.” —Mrs. Janice Clark “I initially met Sandy as one of my J-building neighbors and it was through this I learned of his passion for teaching, especially within ELD. His tireless dedication in attending ELD conferences (I’m guessing on his own dime) reflect one aspect of what it means to be a dedicated teacher!” —Mr. Matt Woodin “When I was an “experienced” aide, but a new teacher at Temple City, the state materials on sheltered teaching we were using were written by Sandy. When I moved back to Arcadia I was so happy to be in Jbuilding, back to discussions with a teacher I had only known as a great teacher of students, but with a new respect for a teacher of teachers. I sincerely miss him.” —Ms. Janet Baker “Knowing him throughout the years was truly an honor and a privilege. One could always count on his wisdom, caring and thoughtful advice. He was a walking
“Sandy set the bar for all of us! SecHe was a blessing in my life! I will always cherish our friendship! RIP my friend!” —Mr. Jon Dimalante
ond to none as an educator.
“The first word that comes to my mind when thinking of Sandy is ‘generous’. May God Bless and Keep you Sandy Silverstein.” —Mr. Ken Johnson
LEAVING HIS LEGACY Mr. Silverstein’s wealth of knowledge and sheer passion embodied the very spirit of teaching.
encyclopedia of educational knowledge... Hearing about his passing was truly like losing a family member, and he will truly be missed.” —Mr. Dave Silah “I cannot think of another teacher who is more fully dedicated to their profession than Sandy Silverstein. He was at school nights and weekends, even when he was ill, to give his students thorough feedback on their writing. His efforts were obvious when his students graduated from the ELD program—they could organize and develop writing beautifully.”
—Ms. Melissa Hatheway “His students were recognized many times for their achievements in writing, a true testament to his expertise. He was a great teacher and a true professional, who always wanted to improve his craft.” —Ms. Kerry King
“This is the kind of teacher I remember him being—one who was willing to participate and join in anytime.” —Ms.Claudia Grubbs In the words of Ms. Robin NeuwirthBishop, “Let’s remember...the whole person who was Sandy—that beautiful human, educator, friend, colleague, leader, counselor and mentor; let’s remember what his true value was and still is.”
“Retirement was just not in his DNA.
A full list of unedited tributes, as well as a photo gallery commemorating Mr. Silverstein, can be found on our website.
ferences that he attended annually over the course of his 52 year career at AHS with his
eic.powwow@gmail.com Photo courtesy of DAVE SILAH
He gave everything to his career as an educator. The myriad of educational con-