I believe the first time I met Waseem was when he tried out for the ping-pong team in grade 9 (it was grade 9 wasn't it, Waseem?). I already knew who Waseem was, because I'd taught his fantastic older sister (hey! want to be Student of the Week sometime, Niemat? Send me an update as to what you are up to!). He was competing against all these other boys in grade 10, 11, and 12 and - to be honest - I didn't give him much of a chance. But if you've ever played ping-pong against Waseem you know he puts this kind-of-crazy spin on almost every shot. Everyone was having troubles with it and -lo and behold - he beat most of them and made the team!
This little ping-pong table story exemplifies Waseem quite well. He quietly showed up to try-outs (Waseem is almost always quiet), he was not intimidated by the older students (or if he was, he did not let his fear stop him), and he plugged away - shot after shot - until he made the team. Just like with his math...
I first taught Waseem in Workplace 11. He was one of the most dedicated (and high-achieving) Workplace students I have ever taught. But, though it's a BIG jump, this year Waseem has moved to PreCalculus 11. I have never had a student successfully move from Workplace to PreCalculus. But Waseem very well could be the first!
Again, not one to be intimidated, Waseem is plugging away in PreCalculus. I know it's very difficult at times but Waseem is not one to give up. I really admire him for his quiet determination and his ability to persevere.
Your work-ethic and self-motivation are very admirable, Waseem! It has always been very easy (and a great pleasure) to teach you. Keep working hard this year and I am sure you will pass PreCalculus 11. Keep working just as hard for the rest of your life... and see the amazing things that you will achieve. Good luck W.Y.!!