I have taught Rintaro at least four years (it might even be five!), and I believe he has sat at the exact same desk every time: back corner, away from the windows. I actually used to have a sign up over there that said "Dolores's Domain" because a (truly wonderful) former student, Dolores C, sat their for three successive years. But Rintaro has outdone her! I guess I will have to re-name it "Rintaro's Residence" or something.
Anyway, so much for the stereotype of the "bad students" sitting in the back. Rintaro is about as good a Math student as I could hope for. He is always eager, motivated, and focused in class. He is polite and friendly and laid-back. Altogether, just a really nice person to have in your class. Never gave me the slightest bit of trouble.
One of my favourite things about Rintaro is when he asks for help with his math. For most students it's like this:
Student: Mr. Wadge. How do I do this one?
Me: Well, you need to start by factoring.... (blah blah blah).
Student: Oh. Right. Thanks
Then there is Rintaro...
Rintaro: Mr. Wadge. How do I do this one?
Me: Well, you need to start by factoring.... (blah blah blah).
Rintaro: OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!! NOW I SEE IT!!! THANK YOU!!!
He always seems truly delighted to understand something that was confusing him. I love it!
It's been a great four (five?) years, Rintaro! Thanks for all the positive vibes and friendly energy you brought to my classroom. I know you are on the road to great success (entrepreneurial and otherwise). May you never lose your happy nature and your enthusiastic approach to life. You are amazing and I will miss you!