The teacher I would like to thank is Mr. Thomas Porton. Mr. Porton was my English and Drama teacher from 1982-1986 at James Monroe High School. Little did I know that he would be the one teacher to touch my life as he did. It never seemed that he was doing just "his job." Mr. Porton had a sparkle in his eyes. He taught from his heart!
I have not been in contact with Mr. Porton since 1986. Way back during my teenage years, I thought my situation was hopeless. A Puerto Rican girl from The Bronx was not meant to make it out of the Bronx. Living in a single parent household with a mother who spoke practically no English, it was Mr. Porton who inspired and motivated me DAILY. My poor attitude was reflected in my actions and grades. Yet, he never stopped believing. It was Mr. Porton who often told me that I could do and be anything I wanted to. The only thing I cared about back then was the drama club. I loved the outlet it provided me. I played a street bum in one of Mr. Portons' schools plays. My character, the bum, found a shiny dime. This shiny dime brought the bum much joy. Mr. Porton has been my shiny dime for over two decades. It was then that I knew a bum was not what I would become. It is because of Mr. Porton that I am a teacher today. When I became a teacher nine years ago, I told myself that I wanted to be just like Mr. Porton... An inspiration and motivator.
Although I visit friends in the Bronx once a year, I left the Bronx many, many moons ago. My only regret is never personally thanking Mr. Porton. When I received my Masters in Education, I thanked two people during the celebration: my husband for mentally supporting my decision to return to school and Mr. Porton for believing in me and making a young Puerto Rican girl from the Bronx believe in herself. I pray this email makes it to Mr. Porton. Mr. Porton, you are my hero. Over two decades ago you stirred a desire inside of me that made me want to care about my future. From the bottom of my heart I am eternally grateful. Thank you for caring so much and thank you for never giving up. My hope is to inpsire my students as you inspired me.
-Daysi Hinksman (Valentin)
James Monroe High School, Class of 1986