Friends, classmates, teachers, principals, and community members:

Today is a day that I have long dreaded. Today, October 16, 2020, is Mr. Abe’s last day as a New Castle High School teacher. One word to describe him – powerful. Since I met him, Abe has served as not only a teacher and a mentor but as a friend to me. From the discussion of martial arts to the creation of articles to everything in between, Abe has always been there. Abe has helped me tremendously – not just with school and journalism but also with helping to shape my future.

I first met abe at the beginning of 9th grade in Accelerated English. Abe has always believed in me from day one and has by far been the best teacher I’ve ever had. I knew one day I was going to say goodbye to you, I just didn’t think it would come this early. We haven’t been in-person since March 12th – over seven months. I have missed the time spent in Abe’s class dearly. I miss it more than any other class. I understand that given the current circumstances it is unsafe to go back, but man, I have never wanted to go back more than today. The class of 2021 has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic more than any other graduating class thus far, and I think the time in Abe’s class is the biggest loss I have experienced due to the pandemic.

To say the least, I haven’t been this sad in a very long time. I honestly don’t know what to type. I think the best way to describe it is bittersweet. I’m speaking for all current and former students as well as everyone else when I say thank you for everything you have done. It has truly been an honor to have you as my teacher for the past few years and I wish you the best throughout this next chapter. You deserve it. I haven’t been able to see you in-person for a long time now, but I just know I will again before I leave New Castle for college. I look forward to keeping in touch over the coming years.

Thank you so much for everything you’ve done.

Gratefully,

Brett Tyree, 2020-2021 Senior Editor of Operations