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A tribute to a teacher who made a difference at QHS

By Chuck Allen, Post-Register Editor
June 12, 2008

A good teacher helps us learn things that will be useful in our lives. A great teacher does that and also inspires us to follow our dreams.

Quincy High School has had such a person on its staff for 39 years.

Norma Petersen, who has taught English and Spanish at the high school and is retiring, did more than just teach those languages to thousands of students. She taught them about life and helped prepare them for it.

I am sorry to say that I never had the pleasure of being one of her students. I moved away from Quincy my sophomore year. I certainly missed out on a special experience, and so will future students at Quincy High School.

"She will be missed, but never replaced," said one former colleague about Mrs. Petersen.

Last year, Mrs. Petersen was the inaugural recipient of the Quincy Valley Chamber of Commerce's Educator of the Year Award.

She was presented the award during the annual chamber banquet held in February, 2007.

During the presentation, excerpts of recollections of Mrs. Petersen by a number of former students were read for the audience.

This is what they had to say:

ã "Norma is dedicated and caring, which is a requirement for any good teacher, but she is more than that. There is something unique about her relationship with all types of students that inspires each of them to do their best in her class."

—"I was never afraid of getting in trouble with Mrs. Petersen, I was far more afraid of disappointing her."

—"She has been there to support us through each of the challenges we have faced, whether it being a simple athletic game or the loss of a friend. Her understanding and support of the situations that we experienced in high school and later on have been a constant comfort."

—"Although it's been over 30 years since I graduated, I do remember many of the lessons and concepts that she taught us. She truly cares for each of her students as individuals, often agonizing over them as they experience the trials of life, and being so happy for them when they succeed."

—"The symphonies that were Mrs. Petersen's lectures and life lessons continue to influence my life today. She is a consummate professional and beloved friend."

Quincy High School was a much better place with Norma Petersen walking its halls.

"If you wanted a definition of what a great teacher is supposed to be, you should look to Norma Petersen," said QHS Principal Chris McKnight.

Her dedicated efforts in educating generations of Quincy students have made our community and the world a better place. Thank goodness for her and for all dedicated teachers who see the opportunity to educate and help influence the lives of young people as a high calling, rather than just a job.