July 19, 2023

Dear Sir or Madam:

I write this letter excitedly on Margret Geltemeyer’s behalf. Margret was a student in my English
classes from the Fall semester of 2019 through the Fall semester of 2022 at Garza Independence
High School. During this time, Margaret completed English Language Arts 2B, 3A, 3B, and 4A.
In working closely together, I had the pleasure of observing an insightful and genuine individual
who I respect greatly.

My experience teaching Margret began in the fall of 2019. She was a stand-out student from the
beginning, who could be trusted to work independently, ask questions and discuss amiably, and
strive to do well in her courses. She completed her first course with me just before Spring Break
of 2020.

In March of 2020, amid the chaos of the Covid19 pandemic, a time of near-solitary confinement
for many high school students, Margaret continued to work on her coursework with me and her
other Garza teachers. At this time, courses were only available via remote access. For the
duration of our class time from 2020-2021, Margret logged in to our 3rd period “zoom room,”
participated in the group warm ups and Friday poem discussions, checked in for goal setting and
received private instruction in break out rooms, and then would either continue working in the
zoom room, occasionally asking questions for guidance, or log off to work independently.

Despite the abstract nature of this instruction, or perhaps because of it, I was able to get to know
Margret very well, both as a writer and an individual. She is a respectful, thoughtful and genuine
young mind, eager to articulate her thoughts and make meaning in the world. While we were
remote, Margret was responsible, communicating when she needed help and acting with maturity
beyond her age. Her writing was interesting and showed effort. While the isolation of the
pandemic was a struggle for Margret, she was able to be successful in her coursework and make
great strides toward graduation.

When Margret returned to campus and resumed in-person learning, she was stronger, more
resilient, and happy to be back in the company of others, and to receive guidance in real-time.
She eagerly addressed her assignments in English IV A, and wrote a creative article articulating
her philosophy of anarchy, poetry that captures her creative spirit, and an independent study of
Anthony Burgess’s 1962 novel, A Clockwork Orange. Margret completed this course work with
commitment to excellence and a curious mind. I was often impressed with her work ethic and the
interest she took in her assignments. This is the kind of person who genuinely cares about what
they do, and wants what they do to be meaningful for themselves and others.
Before closing, I feel compelled to state that, in addition to being thoughtful and intelligent,
Margaret is a likable person. She listens to others when they share their opinions and handles
conflict with smoothness. She knows when to state her opinion, when to ask questions, and when
to move on from a point that has become unproductive to discuss. She is a dependable team
member, who can be counted on to contribute ideas, seek out solutions, and connect with the
members of a group.

In looking toward the future, Margret has expressed interest in pursuing a career in cosmetology.
As this student continues to mature, I have no doubts that she will succeed in her future
educational and professional pursuits. Shee was truly a pleasure to teach. It is with delight that I
recommend Margret Geltemeyer for any academic or employment opportunities.

Sincerely yours,

Julia Mailloux-Huberdeau
English Language Arts Facilitator
(512) 414-8671