Gonzalo Garza Independence High

School

July 25, 2016

Dear Sir or Madam:

I write this letter enthusiastically on Kendall Wildermuths behalf. Kendall was a student of mine
during the Spring of 2016 through the 2018 school year at Garza Independence High School, in
English Language Arts II, III, and IV. During these courses, Kendall engaged in research,
analysis, argument and persuasion, and both academic and creative writing skills. It is through
these experiences that I came to know, respect, and marvel at her varied interests, emotional
maturity, and academic abilities. She is an intelligent and perceptive student, capable of great
success.

This young woman is a skilled communicator, adept at presenting materials within the
conventional modes as well as integrating unique ideas and talents. She is an outgoing, out-
spoken student who excels when the project calls for integrating multiple topics and skills, as
well as considering multiple perspectives. Kendall often applies knowledge from other areas of
interest and personal experiences to make her points. In group settings, Kendall is friendly and
gracious, yet unafraid to state her opinion or ask questions for clarification. In fact, she shines
when the assignment calls for group discussion. I can recall several specific mini-lessons in
which Kendall took the lead in analyzing a complex text, and guiding her peers to understand the
ideas.

In the time she spent in my classroom, Kendall completed several assignments that stand out.
Indeed, she is both an expressive writer and an analytical thinker. While she often doubted her
abilities, her work consistently showed thoughtfulness, attention to detail, and careful
consideration. One assignment that comes to mind is a presentation she completed in English II,
which responded to the theme of Survival and the text Two Old Women by Velma Wallace. In
this project, Kendall researched a survival skill, and then created a screen-cast-o-matic
presentation in which she gave detailed instructions on how to make snow shoes. Throughout the
process, Kendall was organized and good natured, and despite the impractical subject (we both
laughed at the concept of making snow shoes as a response to disaster in Austin, Texas), she took
the task seriously. She kept a positive attitude, even through the frustrating moments in which
technology baffled both of us. Her project became the example of quality work that I keep for
subsequent students who read this novel.

Another project that stands out from her time in my class is her personal This I Believe essay,
in which she explained that life is better with a dog. In this short expository piece, she tells the
story of her own dog, and how her life has changed because of her canine friend. This sweet,
 Gonzalo Garza Independence High

School

sincere story not only shows Kendalls ability to craft an engaging text, it shows her compassion
and sensitivity two qualities that make her such a joy to teach.

In addition to being a diligent student, Kendall is a likeable person as well. She is personable and
open. While shes naturally chatty, she is also is aware of when she needs to re-focus and get
serious. She has a head-strong nature that counter-balances her impatience. When a task needs to
be completed, she will, no matter the obstacles, get it done, and if you stand too close, you will
be swept up with her current. This ability to stay driven even when she doesnt want to is
admirable, and I only wish that more of her peers possessed this gift.

In closing, I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching this young woman, and believe Kendall
Wildermuth will be a great addition to any University she attends, as well as any pursuit she
chooses in her adult life. It is with delight that I recommend her for any academic or employment
opportunities.

Sincerely yours,

Julia Champine
English Language Arts Facilitator
(512) 414-8671