Going into junior year, people told me that Mrs. Burnham was a mean teacher, and that it’s almost impossible to have a good grade in her class. Walking into her classroom the first day, I was honestly a little scared.

Since then, I’ve come to realize that she is one of the most caring, hard-working teachers I’ve had. She’s a nice person, but knows how to be tough on students to make them better. I’m grateful for her and her ability to hold her students to high standards, but also do it in a way that shows she cares.

I’m also thankful for her “overexplaining,” as she calls it, and for all the timed writings, even if they’re not always fun. They’ve taught me how to manage my time when under pressure, and her explanations give me a clearer understanding of whatever it is we may be learning at the time.

Beyond just the surface, she’s also a funny person. She’s fun to talk to and makes it easy to have a conversation with her about anything, not just school.

She is genuinely one of the only teachers I’ve had who has truly made me feel challenged, but also prepared.

Going into the AP test, I feel confident that I will do well because of what she’s taught me and the effort she’s put in all year to make us the best we can be.

Without her time and effort, she’s put into making us successful, I would not be as knowledgeable or prepared for my future in English.

So while it can be scary going into a classroom with a tough teacher, she has significantly helped my writing by giving me feedback that will continue to benefit me in the future.

I appreciate how much she cares for her students, not only in English, but as people. Thank you, Mrs. Burnham, for making me a better writer and student. I know that I will carry the skills you’ve taught me through college and the rest of my future, and you’ve made a positive impact on my junior year.