Teachers do so much more than teach; they inspire, guide, and shape our futures. At LAS, our educators create spaces where curiosity thrives, confidence grows, and students feel seen and supported. Their dedication goes beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting impact on students.

We recently celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week, a time to reflect on the incredible impact our teachers have had on students’ lives.

Which LAS teachers made a lasting impact on your life? Was it a lesson that stuck with you, a moment of encouragement, or a classroom that felt like home?

Share your story by emailing us! Big or small, we’d love to hear how LAS educators shaped your journey.

Send us your memories!

 

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Hope La Farge
"Ron Wigglesworth was not just teacher, he was also my faculty Dad! He’s been there for me at my highest and lowest. He fostered creativity and curiosity through art and science. I wouldn’t be in the field I am in today if it weren’t for him!

Brent McAvoy was an amazing English teacher. He had the power to prod and asked you to read between the lines, questioning human existence. Perhaps a philosopher at heart as well.

Ethan Harris awakened the adventurer and explorer within me through nature and sport! It’s an addiction and daily practice. He taught me mental grit.

Richard D. Campanaro encouraged playful confidence and fun through theater! He encouraged embracing all the quirks that make you unique."
 

Michael Bardach
"Howard Rachelson was always my favorite in 1974-1975! He may remember when the police came and got me out of my math class and took me to jail for throwing a snowball and accidentally breaking a window. The whole class was looking out the window down at me being put in the back of the police car with a German Shepherd. They released me after a few hours. Mr Rachelson was a cool guy and a great teacher."
 

Emir Erkan
"My ESL teachers and classmates helped me feel at ease when I was struggling. Mr. and Mrs. Kapner, Mr. Orsini, and Mrs. Stuart—who would speak to me in Turkish when I didn’t understand something in English—made a big difference in my learning experience."
 

Caltara Zoellner-G
"Sister Catherine Theoni had us study a book called "500 Words for the SAT." I loved every lesson. Learning about words, their meanings, their origins, and the beautiful patterns of language has been one of my favorite things to do my whole life. When I visited my parents during winter break, they certainly noticed a change and asked me about the change in my vocabulary. "Oh, those are my Sister Catherine's words," was my response. We still refer to words like xenophobia and pugilism as Sister Catherine's words."

Charles Odell
"For me, it was Janos Lindenberger. He taught skiing and physical education during my time at LAS, 1970 -1973. Learning to ski in Switzerland is something I truly cherish. He and his wife, Colette, remain friends with me and my family. We visited them last October."

Jan Groneman
"There were several, I’d say. Ms. Turk boosted my interest in math and physics, Dr. Wray peaked my interest in chemistry, Mr. Greedy confirmed my appreciation of the arts and got me hooked on rugby, Mr. Soprano made reading a valuable pastime, Mr. Skove taught me the value of history and that you learn just as well outside on a sunny day. Most of all, Mr. Sharp taught me humanities, philosophy, ethics, and common sense. Aside from teaching, Louise Mangos organized memorable trips and events. Mr. Kifle and Natale had a great sense of humor, and Chef Roger showed the value of patience amid chaotic mobs. I’m sure I forgot many, but I’ve benefited from all of them throughout the years and thank them dearly!"

Adriana White
"Alfonso Orsini was my most impactful teacher. He was so patient with me and my classmates who felt like we were starting over a bit when our class was split due to its size in grade 11. I really felt like he adjusted his style to match our needs, and I enjoyed and thrived for the first time ever in an English class. I know I was extremely thrilled to have him again for my senior year, because it meant I would feel seen and heard. He has entered my mind quite a few times over the last 25 years, and I have always had such beautiful memories of the plays we acted out, his reading to us, and my much better understanding of basic grammar, that I probably should have had before then!"
 

Heather Adams
"Ms. Kirsten Farrell was certainly “that” teacher for me (as I know she was for others). The door to her room was always open. It’s been 20+ years, and she remains one of the most beautiful and genuine souls I’ve ever encountered."