An Important Suggestion for the New School Year by F. G.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 3, 1908

An Important Suggestion for the New School Year

By F. G.

I was a student in —— for one and one-half years. My bills were all paid in advance, and I gave my teachers no cause of complaint whatever, except that I took studies too advanced for me; but not one of the teachers nor pupils asked me to return to the school for the next year. When the class of 1894 was formed, every pupil who was in the class with me, and who was not a member of some other class, was invited to join, but myself. I felt that I had not one friend among teachers, and scarcely one among the students, who cared whether I lived or died; and but for the reproach that would have been brought upon the truth among my friends, I should have left long before the school year closed, for I was so unhappy. I went to a near-by high school; and before I was there two weeks, both teachers and students were asking me to complete a course. I was as happy there as I was unhappy in our school, and in one of the teachers I found one of the best friends I have ever found outside of my own family. After completing my course in the high school, I took a course in a female seminary and later in the State normal. In both of these places I had the same experiences that I had in the high school. All were friendly.

The foregoing words are quoted from the letter of a former student in one of our schools, and they are full of suggestion and have a lesson of great value. This person was of a rather retiring nature, and as a consequence did not force her way into the society of her fellow students and teachers. She has always remained loyal to the truth since these days, but has not taught in our schools, though all of her time has been spent in teaching. It is very easy for teachers and students to fail to encourage and draw out reticent and quiet students. It is very easy to associate with those who are more congenial. It is a sad thing that any student in our schools, should have it to say that no one took a special interest in him, or talked with him in reference to his soul’s welfare.

The new school year is upon us, and many students are coming to our schools, leaving homes from which they have never been away more than a few days at a time. It is the solemn and sacred duty of teachers and students to throw round about such the most friendly, cheerful, and home-like atmosphere possible, to receive them most cordially and to make them feel that they are thoroughly welcome. Every effort should be made to draw out those who are of a reticent nature, and particular interest should be taken in those who are homesick. This cheerful atmosphere, this kindly friendship, may mean salvation to a soul, and it surely will mean a bringing of happiness into some life.

Let us learn the lesson taught by the experience given above.

F. G.