06 May Today, Living Oklahoma asked about favorite teachers on their fb page… I deci…
Today, Living Oklahoma asked about favorite teachers on their fb page… I decided to share about one of my top favorites and the impact she had in my life. I know, many, if not all -Pirates remember, MRS. LOIS THOMAS…my Journalism/Newspaper Staff Adviser teacher for 3 years at Putnam City High School. She was ahead of her time, extremely personable, positive and driven. She was very inquisitive and so polite, yet very direct about my size, 4'4" as a high school student meeting me in her class the first day. She later partnered with Dina Marie Aitken and I to write a feature story in The Pirate Log (school paper) about an experience I had the summer before my first year of high school…the experience was attending a Little People of America convention. At first I was hesitant to have a story focusing on my height since I hardly paid attention to it as I just thought of myself like anyone else, just shorter. Since I wasn't crazy about the idea, she asked if she and Dina Marie Aitken could just write the story and let me read it… I agreed and was encouraged and talked into letting the story be published in The Pirate Log. It was so well written; positive and true. I felt so vulnerable as a high school student does, even more so with putting and open book about my physical appearance difference out there among my peers. I did not want to stand out or be treated differently as most people didn't and I was comfortable that way. Sure, I was teased, but it seemed to me it was in fun and positive as well as, not always about my being short. The story was well received by many, teachers and my peers included in such a way I would want it to be! As a result of the story and the following, it gave me in an even more real and positive perspective about myself and others with -ANY- differences! Really, we are all different in our own way, mine just happens to be very a bit more obvious immediately. Lois Thomas and Dina Marie Aitken showed my human similarities too that I shared with my peers. The other thing about Lois Thomas, was her clever approach to fund raising for cancer. I have used the concept in other fund raising and causes I support. She would ask for any donation amount so everyone could give and be part of the movement…She was recognized many times for her dedication and her idea continues on within the PC Schools. Thank you Lois Thomas, my teacher and dear, huge-hearted, fun-tabulous friend, Dina Marie Aitken!!!!! 💕😀💕
Roberta Moler
Posted at 20:02h, 06 MayYou’ve always been special, but because of your love for others. Don’t ever stop being that shining example. love ya lots
Jack Boyd
Posted at 20:42h, 06 MayI found this at the Museum Kendra
Jana Gray
Posted at 20:48h, 06 MayThanks for sharing this Kendra, what a great tribute.
Libbie Marshall
Posted at 22:11h, 06 MayOh Kendra, I just love you! Every single thing about you, your spirit and the love you reflect. Never once did I ever view you as a little person. You are Kendra our friend! 💕
Terri Hill Broenkow
Posted at 23:02h, 06 MayKendra I love to hear positive stories about teachers. Thanks for sharing
Kelly Morris
Posted at 23:41h, 06 MayLois came to our house when my brother was in journalism. His dear friend Dan Presley was killed and Mrs Thomas didn’t want my brother to hear that news from the grapevine. She was so kind to take the time to come over and talk ….
Kelly Morris
Posted at 23:42h, 06 MayKendra….do you remember our sign language class? We has a great time
David Cathey
Posted at 00:03h, 07 MayMr John Knight. Ms Smith.
Tami Reid
Posted at 00:08h, 07 MayDo you remember me tami reid
Lisa Kamp
Posted at 00:51h, 07 MayKendra, very well said! All true!
Jason Smitherman
Posted at 02:34h, 07 MayThanks Kendra! Appreciated the original article too!
Steffany Sharpe-Leach
Posted at 03:44h, 07 MayRemember our Spanish Teacher. We had fun sitting in the back of the class.