When I took geometry with Mr. Savage, I really struggled. The memorization of axioms, postulates, and theorums left me dizzy. I went to him after school and shared my problem with him. He was very compassionate and understanding.
His attitude emboldened me to make a request: ”If I can get the correct answer by proving it logically and not memorizing, would you mark it right?” He said he would, and I got through geometry with his help.
It was not until I taught myself that I realized how much a labor of love grading those papers of mine separately was.
Thank you, Mr. Savage. You taught me that I was smart in math and that has given me a confidence in my logical abilities that I treasure.
This kindness has stayed with me my entire life, and I try to remember it as I teach my students and help those who struggle. Before IEP’s and 504’s, my teacher made accomodations for me out of genuine concern, not state mandate.
Submitted by Janice Swindell, Mr. Savage’s student at Leicester High School from 1964 to 1968.
I am the son of John J. Savage. He died in 1968 and I was born in 1964, so I don’t
personally remember his teaching career. However, I’ve always been proud to hear that he was such a dedicated teacher. I am now a college professor and dedicated my third book to him.