Athens High School

4333 John R.
Troy, MI 48085
248-823-2900
248-823-2913 (fax)
http://athens.troy.k12.mi.us

Dr. Lara Dixon, Principal

Bob Dowd, Assistant Principal
William Turner, Assistant Principal
Dan Mills, Interim Assistant Principal

April 17, 2016

To Whom It May Concern:

Recently, I was invited into the classroom of one of our veteran Spanish teachers to observe John Timm,
student teacher from Oakland University who has been working with us since the beginning of the
school year. Although I always try to observe our student teachers before they finish their tenure, I dont
always succeed, as the constraints of administration often times pull us in directions that dont allow us
the time to see all the great teaching going on from our aspiring teachers. Fortunately, John reached out
to me to ask specifically for my reflections by inviting me in to his class as he taught. I was appreciative
of his initiative, and after seeing him teach, was even more thankful that I was able to see him in action.
It was definitely a great experience, and it is with this in mind that I write this letter on his behalf.
Instructional leadership is paramount to our school district, and a focal point of my goals with the
teachers I work with at Athens High School. My standards are high, because our teachers set the bar
high, and constructive criticism can be lengthy when I observe student teachers. I can honestly say that
when I watched John in action, I was surprised, and more importantly, impressed with many things that I
saw. The praise certainly outweighed the criticism to say the least First of all, his demeanor was one of
confidence that exhibited his thoughtfulness in planning, and ability to execute. Transitions were
seamless, and his communication style was not only effective, it was provoking. Students followed
along, and were constantly encouraged to share their learning through various planned interactions to
showcase their learning. The way that John was able to put his lesson together had elements of
background history, coupled with a myriad of opportunities for students to interact with the language
through different engaging mediums. The result was a class full of excitement, and student led
activities. Not only were all students involved, but there were multiple examples of formative
assessment, with students assessing each other, and John assessing all for overall understanding. It was
well done, and should be noted to anyone interested in hiring him that the aspects of his lesson that I
observed that day were clear indications of an established consistency of effective teaching, not just a
show for me. I know the difference, and John is clearly setting real instructional goals of learning through
well thought out, engaging lessons.

I know finding a great teacher is a difficult task, but after seeing John in action, I am comfortable in
reassuring you that if given the opportunity to work in your building, he will be an exemplary novice
teacher. Thank you for your time, and feel free to contact me with any questions you may haveSincerely,
William Turner
Assistant Principal
Athens High School
Bturner3@troy.k12.mi.us
@turner8554