Below is a sampling of the many letters Mr. Hunter received at retirement. He truly loves connecting with his former-students and hearing about their successes, so please keep us informed as you go through life! Thanks!!
Dear Mr.
Hunter,
Hi Mr.
Hunter! I'm a former student of yours, the class of 1991-1992 (4th grade) and
1992-1993 (5th grade). My name is Nancy Mok and I'm sure you remember me when I
say that I play tennis. I have such fond memories of you and being in your
class. My dad had actually found the ad that was posted about you in a magazine
and recognized you. You not only had a profound affect on me, you had a lasting
impression on both of my parents, May and Jimmy Mok.
About 7
years ago, I came to visit you when I started my first year in college at UC
Davis. I walked into your room, which had changed its location from the main
building to the portable room (you must had been creating too much music and
noise for them to move you!! heh). All the memories came rushing back to me.
Here are just a few memories I had (some significant, some absolutely random):
*I remember
you encouraged me to bring my tennis racket into class one day, so I can
demonstrate how to swing. My mother, May, must had told you I had started
tennis at the age of 4 and played tennis every day. You had me hit against the
backboard on the playground while the whole class watched and
cheered! It was definitely a memorable moment for me.
*I remember
all the field trips, especially to the Powerbar factory. That was always fun.
Honestly, I had never had a Powerbar in my life til I was in your class. I was
hooked after that and I still continue to eat powerbars before most of my
tennis matches.
*I still
have the "cool" shirts from both the years I was in your class.
Apparently, Bart Simpson was pretty popular then.
The most
fondest memory I have of you is the person, the mentor, and teacher
that you were. You are still one of my favorite teachers. You had the best
sense of humor and the patience. I remember every student in our
class looked up to you and thought you were "thee" coolest
teacher ever, and you definitely were. Everyone always listened to what you had
to say. I still have the utmost respect for you. You had definitely
changed my life.
Since that
day you had me bring my tennis racket to school and had me hit
against the backboard, I had continued to play tennis all through high school
and college. At UC Davis, I played Divison I/II tennis for all 4 of my years.
In 2006, I graduated from UC Davis with a biological sciences
major. While I was on the UC Davis tennis team, I met my husband, Gregory
Lee, who was also on the UC Davis men's tennis team. We very recently got
married this past weekend, May 18, 2008. I attached a few photographs (we have
more photographs, but are waiting to get them from our photographer...). I also
attached a photograph of just plain old us (without all the make-up and
everything). I'm still looking through old pictures to see if I have any from
my elementary school years...I will share that with you when I find them..
In this
upcoming July, I will be starting dental school at the University of the
Pacific school of dentistry in San Francisco. I'm aspiring to become a dentist
and will be in the next few years. I hope we can keep in touch.
Congratulations
on 36 years of teaching! I want to wish you all the best! You are an amazing
teacher!
Sincerely,
Nancy Mok
Lee
Dear Jim,
Omedeto Gozaimasu! That's a Japanese congratulations! You have achieved the ultimate 'perfect attendance' record with the culmination of 36 years teaching 5th grade at Cherrywood. Your dedication is inspirational and your enthusiasm legendary. If someone would have told me when I was a kid at Cherrywood that someday I would be very close to Mr. Hunter and his wife, I would have laughed at such a ridiculous statement, yet here we are and it is not so strange at all. I know that I hold a very coveted position as close family friend and I am so grateful to have you both in my life. Without Jennifer, I would have never known what true friendship was really about and I have you to thank. If you had not grounded her here in Los Gatos, I may have never met your extraordinary wife. You two are quite a match, not so obvious on paper, but in reality one of the best relationships I know. It's the differences and opposing strengths that when carefully and lovingly combined, become a powerful force that never goes stagnant or taken for granted.
It was so apropos in a full circle kind of way for me to return to Cherrywood this past year to help you with some projects close to your heart. Seeing you back in your element, I realized that nothing has changed since 1975. You are still loud, zany, blowing your whistle and pounding your drum with all the adoring students clamoring for your attention. I realized that you didn't become a teacher because you liked simply liked kids or teaching. While many of your friends were making millions, movies or matter, you chose the job less decorated because you knew you had the gift. It was that 'something special' that made you more effective, more influential and more accepted. You had the innate ability to get through to even the toughest cases. This gift, coupled with your compassion and straight forward methodology was the reason why so many students, friends and the like, have said to you, "You made a difference in my life" and they mean it. To me, you are "The Patron Saint of the Young and the Young at Heart".
At this very personal and profound moment, when life as you knew is going to drastically change, I hope you really savor and enjoy every minute of your last week of school and find comfort and satisfaction in the fact that you achieved the ultimate perfect attendance record and sainthood, no less! You have quite an enviable life waiting for you to start at home with Jennifer, Jack & Lucy and your bees! Congratulations again and simply, thank you.
Love,
Kathy Koga
Cherrywood Class of 75'
Omedeto Gozaimasu! That's a Japanese congratulations! You have achieved the ultimate 'perfect attendance' record with the culmination of 36 years teaching 5th grade at Cherrywood. Your dedication is inspirational and your enthusiasm legendary. If someone would have told me when I was a kid at Cherrywood that someday I would be very close to Mr. Hunter and his wife, I would have laughed at such a ridiculous statement, yet here we are and it is not so strange at all. I know that I hold a very coveted position as close family friend and I am so grateful to have you both in my life. Without Jennifer, I would have never known what true friendship was really about and I have you to thank. If you had not grounded her here in Los Gatos, I may have never met your extraordinary wife. You two are quite a match, not so obvious on paper, but in reality one of the best relationships I know. It's the differences and opposing strengths that when carefully and lovingly combined, become a powerful force that never goes stagnant or taken for granted.
It was so apropos in a full circle kind of way for me to return to Cherrywood this past year to help you with some projects close to your heart. Seeing you back in your element, I realized that nothing has changed since 1975. You are still loud, zany, blowing your whistle and pounding your drum with all the adoring students clamoring for your attention. I realized that you didn't become a teacher because you liked simply liked kids or teaching. While many of your friends were making millions, movies or matter, you chose the job less decorated because you knew you had the gift. It was that 'something special' that made you more effective, more influential and more accepted. You had the innate ability to get through to even the toughest cases. This gift, coupled with your compassion and straight forward methodology was the reason why so many students, friends and the like, have said to you, "You made a difference in my life" and they mean it. To me, you are "The Patron Saint of the Young and the Young at Heart".
At this very personal and profound moment, when life as you knew is going to drastically change, I hope you really savor and enjoy every minute of your last week of school and find comfort and satisfaction in the fact that you achieved the ultimate perfect attendance record and sainthood, no less! You have quite an enviable life waiting for you to start at home with Jennifer, Jack & Lucy and your bees! Congratulations again and simply, thank you.
Love,
Kathy Koga
Cherrywood Class of 75'
Hey Mr. Hunter, At my many years at Middle School, If theres
one teacher I remember, it's you. Although I was not in your class, I enjoyed
being in your African Dance Crew, on your Top Gun, and in your Chess Club. From
those rainy practice days for the dances, to the MANY, MANY chess practices during
recess. To wrap this up, I want to say thank you for the wonderful memories for
me at Cherrywood, and I WILL start practicing chess again due to my score at
the district, and I hope you have a wonderful time for the rest of your life.
~Don Pham 2006 - 2007
As of my many years at Sierramont Middle School , I always
wanted to be in Mr.Hunter's class for 5th grade , because my brother had him ,
& he always bragged about how much fun that class is , & i always
wished that one day I could be in his class . Unfortunately , in 5th grade , i
wasn't in his class , but that was fine , because i was in his African American
Dance Company & Chess Club . I always looked forward to afterschool
practices , and Chess Club every Friday after school . Practices were very tiring
, but at the same time , VERY FUN ! He wanted us to be perfect , so we worked
very hard . At the end , we were flawless . Chess club days were also very fun
. This year , even though i don't go to Cherrywood anymore , I still love to
visit . I'll always remember when I'd go to their dance practices , he would
always make me dance in front of everyone , & he made me perform @ the 2008
Talent Show . But it was alright , because I was used to him making me perform
all the time from last year . I still can't imagine Cherrywood without Mr.
Hunter , because I would always visit , and his classroom was the first place I
would always go . & I will always remember that one time I got out of
school to perform at Cherrywood . But most of all , I'll always remember
Mr.Hunter . Because he's the greatest teacher of all .
<3 Faith Escalera .
<3 Faith Escalera .
Hey Mr. Hunter,
Jason called me and let me know you were retiring. I’m
just kidding about the subject line. The last few times we
spoke, you had mentioned perhaps retiring. I would just like to say thanks.
You were my favorite and mostmemorable teacher. I admire
the hard work and dedication you have put in to
inspire the children year after yearand I’m always amazed
by the new and creative ideas you come up with (i.e. chess, drum and
dance).
I can’t really think of any good stories, but
I think the thing I’ll remember the most will be those pesky
multiplication tables. I don’t know if you still do those, but man, you ask me
any multiplication between one and nine and I can tell you in a split second.
So…what are you plans for retirement? I can’t believe
how grown up your kids are now. I remember Libby when she was just a little
girl. I guess we all get old; I just turned 30 last month.
Good luck in retirement!!!
Joshua Andersen
Hey Mr. Hunter, At my many years at Middle School, If theres
one teacher I remember, it's you. Although I was not in your class, I enjoyed
being in your African Dance Crew, on your Top Gun, and in your Chess Club. From
those rainy practice days for the dances, to the MANY, MANY chess practices
during recess. To wrap this up, I want to say thank you for the wonderful
memories for me at Cherrywood, and I WILL start practicing chess again due to
my score at the district, and I hope you have a wonderful time for the rest of
your life. ~Don Pham 2006 - 2007
Dear Mr. Hunter,
It is my pleasure to drop few words for you. You were the
best teacher I ever had. With good personality, attitude and organized. Always
ready to teach no matter what. I liked the rules of your class and also the
best part of the day was the game that you made up, "COWBOYS VS
INDIANS". Everyone misses that game. The chess club was fun. I remember
few times you made me lecture the class on chess. I liked how you did not call
us by our names but by our nicknames. I still remember mine; LOLLY and IRON
HEAD. Overall you are the best and fun teacher. Thanks for everything. We'll
always miss you. Have a wonderful retirement.
Anish Lal
Jim,
enclosed is a time line of our relationship over the last 28 years……a few good
stories I am sure you have forgotten…..but I wanted you to know how much I have
benefited from our relationship over the past 28 years.
Thanks!!!!! Brian Randall
hey Mr H. Thanks for beeing the best teacher I ever had. I
never would have been interested in chess or drumming if it wasn't for you!
This has been the best school year ever! This will be the best year I'll have
for years to come. Anyway, thanks. Hope you have a great time after retiring.
Your
student (and sadly soon not),
Smitty
Mr. Hunter,
I just found out today that you're retiring! A well
deserved retirement, but I'm still sad to hear you go. What a gift it
would've been to have you still be there for my future child to have you as
their teacher- oh well. Thank you so much for all the dedication you had
to teaching. I don't think there's a student that comes through your
class without thinking of you. You truly are a special teacher.
When I was in your class, you made me feel special. And at
the end of the school year, you put it in writing that I was your
"teacher's pet" even if it was not as obvious as other students (my
yearbook proves it!). But, I think that's how our relationship was, an
unspoken respect for one another and your ability to recognize that I was
something special.
My family is soooo blessed to have you as their
teacher. Four out of six siblings isn't bad at all (Nancy!
Especially when the last one came 9 years after me (Minh Nguyen, Class of 02-03)!
Not to mention two cousins (Christine Pham, 93-94 & Gloria Pham, 95-96).
"It's not just a class, It's an adventure!" is
still the best way I can think of and remember how class was. Thank you
for making education so fun.
You'll always be remembered.
~Anne Nguyen
Dear Mr. Hunter,
My name is Gary King and I'm a former student of yours (1982-1984) -- I had you for 4th and 5th grade. I just recently learned about your retirement and wanted to congratulate you on a wonderful career and to let you know that you have touched my life in so many ways I can't begin to even list them.
However, I did want to let you know that you were one of the main reasons that I am doing what I do today -- filmmaking. Only 6 years ago did I fully pursue this dream as I actually went to school, received a Master's in Psychology, then went on to work in the corporate world (Human Resources).
In your class, I always looked forward to the Creative Writing sessions and loved getting your feedback and encouragement. You always were praising my writing, along with giving me the responsibility of being table captain....and one time I had the honor of being hand-picked by you to be "Senior Table Captain" (I think that was the term).
I had many memorable lessons....getting over the fear of using public transportation (you called me out anonymously to the class about "a student was afraid to go on the bus" - hahaa!!)......learning about race and using the "N" word.......when we graduated 5th grade you left these words of wisdom and had us repeat it back to you: "no matter where you go, there you are."
All those minor lessons you may have forgotten in your many years of students and faces.....but I still cherish them to this day and hold close to me.
Again, congratulations on a wonderful accomplishment. And best of luck with your future endeavors. I truly appreciate everything you did for me. Your nephew looks like how I remember your daughter!!
I live in NY now, but hope there could be a chance to see each other in person when I make a visit back to the Bay Area.
All my best,
Gary King
My name is Gary King and I'm a former student of yours (1982-1984) -- I had you for 4th and 5th grade. I just recently learned about your retirement and wanted to congratulate you on a wonderful career and to let you know that you have touched my life in so many ways I can't begin to even list them.
However, I did want to let you know that you were one of the main reasons that I am doing what I do today -- filmmaking. Only 6 years ago did I fully pursue this dream as I actually went to school, received a Master's in Psychology, then went on to work in the corporate world (Human Resources).
In your class, I always looked forward to the Creative Writing sessions and loved getting your feedback and encouragement. You always were praising my writing, along with giving me the responsibility of being table captain....and one time I had the honor of being hand-picked by you to be "Senior Table Captain" (I think that was the term).
I had many memorable lessons....getting over the fear of using public transportation (you called me out anonymously to the class about "a student was afraid to go on the bus" - hahaa!!)......learning about race and using the "N" word.......when we graduated 5th grade you left these words of wisdom and had us repeat it back to you: "no matter where you go, there you are."
All those minor lessons you may have forgotten in your many years of students and faces.....but I still cherish them to this day and hold close to me.
Again, congratulations on a wonderful accomplishment. And best of luck with your future endeavors. I truly appreciate everything you did for me. Your nephew looks like how I remember your daughter!!
I live in NY now, but hope there could be a chance to see each other in person when I make a visit back to the Bay Area.
All my best,
Gary King
I feel
like Mr. Hunter was like part of my family! I can't even tell you all the
wonderful memories I have but I can tell you that his "Whatever It
Takes" motto got me through college (more than once)!
He is
a household name for my family and always will be. My oldest son also knew Mr.
Hunter from his time a Cherrywood. My father, who is now in his 70's still asks
about Jim Hunter.
I
could never give enough thanks for the leadership, life skills, and dedication
I learned. He was truly a life changing figure for me.
Jacinda
Gravem (Formerly Cindy Godward, class of 1988-1989, sister of Denny Godward
classes 1982-1983 & 1983-1984)
Dear Mr. W.i.t (Mr. Hunter),
Hello
Mr. Hunter! After I heard from my cousin Dan Suarez who you taught as well and
who is now teaching at Serramont Middle School that you retired.
I had to make sure it was true that Jim Hunter the “Iron Man” was really
retiring. So I went online and googled Jim Hunter retire after 36 years of
teaching. When I clicked to view I seen the picture of a man that I would never
forget. You still look great after all these years. Maybe it’s all the power
bars you ate or the triathlons you did.
Mr.
Hunter I just wanted to say you touched all of us, whether it was from your
stories, your inspirational speeches, and you teachings us about life. I will
always remember those things you taught us. To this day I go by those three
letters that was on our class shirts “W.I.T” (whatever it takes) I will always
remember that no matter what I do.
So
many memories from cowboys and Indians, buying power bars, going on memorable
field trips, the man who brought his yellow heart to talk about smoking, you
albinos story you told when we went camping ( I couldn’t sleep) and you classic
chants of “Cherry Wood Cherry Wood Cherry Wood” in the assembly. I am so
blessed that I had an opportunity to live in your presence. You have touched so
many students’ lives and I just want to say thank you very much. I wish nothing
but the best to you and your family. Enjoy your retirement whether its surfing,
mountain biking, spending time with your kids and grand kids. Thank you
Always,
Vincent
Suarez Class of 1992
Mr. Hunter,
I still do the hand clap you taught us. Take care Iron ManHunter,
I was one of the “lucky” ones to have had the honor to
attend Mr. Hunter’s 5th grade class in 1979 (or somewhere close
to there). I can honestly say there has never been a teacher who
has had as much of an impact on my life and has helped mold who I am today as
Mr. Hunter. Any teacher can teach a person to add, multiply & divide,
but very few teachers can teach self respect, confidence, integrity and honesty
the way he can. Mr. Hunter teaches everybody to believe in themselves and
do what they love.
There are way too many stories and memories of Mr. Hunter’s
class. From the dirt bike rides at his house in Monte Sereno, to the Alum
Rock bike ride and overnight at Cherrywood, to slaughterball, and some stories
that we just shouldn’t mention. But there is one significant memory I
have of Mr. Hunter that will always remind me of the type of person he
is. We would play street hockey on the black top at Cherrywood and I
certainly was not the most gifted hockey player. We would chose teammates
to pair up with and I was the odd kid out at the end. Obviously feeling a
bit embarrassed, Mr. Hunter stepped in and said “Woodchuck is with me!”
That is they type of person Jim is.
I have never been the smartest kid in the class, however
with the confidence and integrity that I have learned through such teacher’s as
Mr. Hunter I have founded 2 successful companies in the Bay Area. I now
currently own and operate a very successful real estate company in downtown San
Jose. Often times I will hear from clients that they need an address
where the school has high API scores. I hear the parent’s telling their
children they must get all A’s because they are paying a lot for a house to be
in a “good” school district. This saddens me, as I realize these children
will never have the opportunity to meet a teacher quite like Mr. Hunter.
Our schools could use many more teachers just like you and
this world could use many more people like you!
THANK YOU!!!!
Stay in touch.
Eric "Woody" Woodward
Silicon Valley Lofts & Condos
Dear
Mr. Hunter,
Wow,
I'm still flabbergasted that you're retiring. When I first came to Cherrywood
in first grade everyone was talking about you. "Oh my gosh, Mr. Hunter is
SO cool." &I never really realized what they meant until I had the
good fortune to be in your class. I remember the day that I went to check out
who my new teacher would be. I remember I was saying in my head, "I hope I
don't get Mr. Hunter, pleaaaase don't let me get Mr. Hunter." (I was
scared of you hahah!) Sure enough though, I had you. My first day in your
class, I remember you whacking that yardstick around the classroom. It scared
me, I think I even cried when I got home. (Just kidding!) Throughout the school
year, I had some hard times going on but you helped me through it. &I'm
thankful that I got the chance to be taught by you. &It breaks my heart
that you will be leaving Cherrywood. YOU make Cherrywood what it is today. You
bring life and enthusiasm to everyone, and I'm sure I speak for everyone when I
say that I will miss you. WE ALL WILL.
I was in your 2002-2003 class. It was actually your first time doing a collaboration class. I was a fifth grader. The "shy little Sammy". =) In many ways, you've changed me. Whenever I think about life I always think back to Mr. Hunter's class. Your class rules, our class pledge. "Say no!" Hahah, it brings a smile to my face just thinking about it. I thank you for breaking my shell because I am no longer the "shy little Sammy" anymore. I actually came to visit your class the last week of school and when I got there you were already gone with a sign that said to visit mrhunter36.com! I just wanted to let you know that your words will forever be in my heart and I hope that I still get to see you. One day, I hope that I can be as great of a teacher as you are.
Until next time,
"Sammy" Narvaez.
I was in your 2002-2003 class. It was actually your first time doing a collaboration class. I was a fifth grader. The "shy little Sammy". =) In many ways, you've changed me. Whenever I think about life I always think back to Mr. Hunter's class. Your class rules, our class pledge. "Say no!" Hahah, it brings a smile to my face just thinking about it. I thank you for breaking my shell because I am no longer the "shy little Sammy" anymore. I actually came to visit your class the last week of school and when I got there you were already gone with a sign that said to visit mrhunter36.com! I just wanted to let you know that your words will forever be in my heart and I hope that I still get to see you. One day, I hope that I can be as great of a teacher as you are.
Until next time,
"Sammy" Narvaez.
(class of 2003)
Thank you Mr. Hunter,
I was in Mr. Hunter's class of 88-89 and can still remember what a
fabulous teacher he was to me! To this day, I can't look at a powerbar
without thinking of him! :-)
Mr. Hunter, you are amazing and I wish you all the best of luck in
your retirement. I know you have touched many people's lives over the
decades you have been teaching and you will be deeply missed for sure!
Take care,
Karen Lieu - formerly Karen San Nicolas
Hey
Mr. Hunter, you've taught 4 kids in my family (including me) and I just want to
say that you're the greatest teacher I've EVER had! It's been a long time since
I've visited, but you've been & always will be the best! I'm sure that
after 36 years, there are hundreds of people who feel the exact same way that I
do. Even the kids who never had the pleasure of being in your class appreciated
the energy and enthusiasm you had! You got everyone interested in chess, and
always had something fun for us to do! I don't think there's any amount of
words that can describe how great you've been to everyone, but I sincerely hope
that you enjoy your retirement!
-Minh Nguyen, class of 2003
-Minh Nguyen, class of 2003
Ode to a Chessman
The years pass him by on parallel rails
singing a song of tired steel.
Ah, to jump a train that refused time,
beg the brakeman for less wood on that cherry fire,
and listen to the conductor’s sound:
“Saint
James, last stop El Camino.”
Waiting for the next station,
hours ticking past his patience.
A sun-burnt nose pressed to looking glass,
watching a palette of life and letters peel away.
I want the train’s jolt to sweep my shoes,
to drag my heels so that I can feel…
his
drift between each narrow rail,
those
years between each clackity-clack
and
sail those graded smiles
while calling....
“Brakeman, Chessman, thrum that leather line.
Pull that horn for the children wandering, wondering…”
And pull it for him brakeman, please.
I’d like to jump a backwards train
so that I could tell those moving past their first ten
to press fresh cheeks against glass
to watch how the farmer’s seeds are sewn
to see
how he reads the pawns and pages,
the
men on the board with thumping palms
and
the words in the windows.
For they too will be a crop harvested,
Cursing knights in time,
digging rooted heels of their own
and
syllables marching to his prime
when letters counted and words were perfect,
when teachers bishoped the past and the beat,
it was perfect.
It was perfect.
For Mr. Jimmy Hunter, a 5th grade teacher,
With fondness and gratitude
Scott Tinley, goofyfoot
5/24/2008
Hey There,
A little
birdie name Cathy Stearns told me that you're going to be retiring this
year. Now you didn't give me loads of time to pull out all the stops, but
I'll see what I can do on short notice :). As I'm sure you know, I
definitely want to be there to celebrate the career that helped to make us who
we are today (and that's a good thing, by the way). So, I need to know a
few details. Basically, I need to book my flight from Ireland so the
sooner you can let me know when I need to get home the better. Can't wait
to see you!!!!
Love You!
Kerry
Forster
Dear Mr.
Hunter,
It has been
a pleasure for me to work with you this year. Even before I
started working at Cherrywood I knew about the wonderful programs you had
developed. I love going to your classroom, it is always full of kids,
especially during recess! I see kids outside playing the drums, dancing,
feeding the bunny, playing chess or just talking to you... That alone tells us
alot about how important you are for this kids and how much they love you.
Thank you
for all the wise advice and support you always gave us.
Please keep
drumming that samba. I would love to see you surfing in Tamarindo, Costa
Rica. Enjoy your time with your wife and family.
Thanks for
everything you do for the kids and staff. Blessed are the kids touched by the
way you teach.
I truly
admire your dedication.
Ericka
Zumbado- SDC Class.
Hey Mr. Hunter,
I did not have your class during 5th grade, but i had Ms. Cross instead. When I was a kid, I always thought your class was the best and I always wanted to be in your class. I remember the time I begged Ms. McBride to transfer me into your class because my friend was in there, but it was full. Lunch time was always the best at Cherrywood because of drums you set out and the $1.00 Powerbars. Good times. Also, I still remember the game cowboy and indians, that was the best activity of all time. Well, congratulations during those years at Cherrywood. Good luck and i hope you enjoy what's coming to you. Take care Mr. Hunter. You were the best even though i never had you as a teacher.
Gabriel Dangtran
Highschool Student, Senior
Mr. Hunter,
I can't believe you're finally gonna retire! It feels like only
yesterday when I first walked into that classroom on my first day as fifth
grader. I felt so proud I was put in that class, and I still am. That year
changed my life. You taught us so much. And not just regular school subjects.
You taught us chess, dancing and druming, skills in succeeding, how to do our best,
and so much more. What I remember most is that you pushed us to try to be the
best we were. Being put in that class was probably one of the things your
students will cherish later on in life. When we pass through obstacles, we'll
remember the words of wisdom you gave us, and they will help us reach our goals
in life. May your retirement be filled with happiness and fun.
Dina Juan –
Class of 06-07
Jimmy
Boy,
There is an old Vietnamese saying " When you eat fruit, think of the person who planted the tree". So much good in my life and our friends lives have been the result of you who "planted the tree". You are an incredible, loyal and giving friend. Your buddy, John
There is an old Vietnamese saying " When you eat fruit, think of the person who planted the tree". So much good in my life and our friends lives have been the result of you who "planted the tree". You are an incredible, loyal and giving friend. Your buddy, John
John F.
McMahon
Message to
Jim Hunter
Happy
retirement!!! When I first heard that Jim Hunter had entered into my best
friends life I was told he was like your favorite 5th grade teacher, the
teacher everyone wanted. He made everything fun! I felt maybe I had
been cheated...Now that I have had a few wonderful summer holiday's with Jim Hunter,
I know how blessed every student that ever sat in his class has been. You
are an amazing educator, friend to children, and most of all human being.
You make this world a better place. God Bless you and enjoy your
days. Come to Boston!!!!! All our love, Maura, TJ, Tim and
Mike xoxoxoxo
Hi Mr.
hunter its me Andrew Giluso or as you like to call juicy Giluso I just want to
tell you I hope you have a good retirement I wish you didn’t have to leave I
want you to stay so I will have you as a teacher when I get in your grade I am
so happy to hear that we won the state chess tournament again I wish
someone would take over chess I still want to play anyway I hope you have a
great time where ever you are.
Love
Andrew
Giluso
3rd Grade
Mr. Hunter,
I was at
Cherrywood for 6 years and I always hoped to get Mr.Hunter when I become a
5th grader. Sadly I didnt get him, but i always visited him in his class and
signed up for mostly everything just to pursue my dreams of being in his class.
I signed up for Drumming and Dancing. I was a chess player and lost most
of the time :].Even though I went to Chess Club since i was like in 1st
grade! Now I am in Sierramont Middle School and everyday after school
when i pick up my little sister, I come and visit his class. Now i wonder what
Cherrywood would be like without him. Even though Mr.Hunter calls me
"Annie." I still find him..........
Anna Cao
THE GREATEST
TEACHER EVER!
I Love Him
<3
& I'll
miss Him every much
Have a
Very Happy Retirement, Mr.Hunter :]
bye
mr.hunter.thank you for all the things you taught me.last year i wasn't good at
chess.now,i'm better.thank you for taking me to the state.i will miss you.
Love,
jennifer lai
HI
Mr.Hunter, I can not believe you are retiring!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!=[ I want you to
stay here for one more year one more year because I want my sister to
have more fun with you as a fifth grade teacher. Plus I hope you someday
remeber me or some other
classmates!
from Tyler
Layug
Hey Mr. Hunter! It’s Melissa Giluso! I will miss you A LOT when you
leave. You were a great teacher for all of the 36 years you taught. Did you
know that you had My uncle in 1984-85. His name was Tim Giluso. My whole family
will remember you even long after you leave Cherrywood. Thank you soooo much
for all of the memorable experiences. The school will be COMPLETELY different
without you. Good luck out there. I’m going to miss you! Bye!
Melissa
Giluso
DONT GO
MR.HUNTER STAY HERE AT CHERRYWOOD. I'LL FLUNK IF I HAVE TO BUT PLEASE DONT GO.
Juan Soriano
hey Mr.hunter
it is Steven
i am in your class
i am going to miss you very much when you retire
i am going to miss all the Cowboys and Indians
that activity was awesome
well
i am going to miss everything that you did for us
you are a great man
since a couple days ago you said you did everything for the 5 graders and u never got a thank you
i am saying thank you for everything
i hope we meet some day when you are retired
thank you
it is Steven
i am in your class
i am going to miss you very much when you retire
i am going to miss all the Cowboys and Indians
that activity was awesome
well
i am going to miss everything that you did for us
you are a great man
since a couple days ago you said you did everything for the 5 graders and u never got a thank you
i am saying thank you for everything
i hope we meet some day when you are retired
thank you
Steven Vo
Hi Mr.Hunter,
This is Aryam. I don`t want you to retiree because I am going to
miss you a lot .
I want my sister to come in your class also. If I knew you will not
retiree, I will not mind getting fail again and again so I can be in your class
forever. You have taught me a lot.
In first grade i didn't know chess but you taught me chess. you made me
good in chess. If you wouldn't be here then chess club would not be
here. So many kids will not become good in chess like me because you will
not be there to teach them. Even pizza on every Friday would not be
here.
I LOVED being in your class. you are kind, funny, and very strict.
you pushed me to reach the top. I liked the field trips we went to.You are
the favorite teacher off all. My family
will miss you too. They talk about your greatness most of the time.
Thank you very much for being my teacher. I love you.
Aryam Singla
2007-2008 class
Dear Mr.Hunter
Thank you for letting the class and I have cowboys and indians and all
the other fun stuff. It was really fun!You're the best! Have a happy retirement!
Your student,
Enrico Domingo
Hi Mr.Hunter, it's ME, CHRISTINE NGUYEN. Well, this isn't my email, but
just ignore that.In 06-07, I had really had fun times, but this year
SOME OF us forgot you. But I'm not saying any names! Just kidding,
Mr.Hunter, everyone REMEMBERS you and will miss you when you retire.
Dear Mr. Hunter,
Thanks for the great year. You are the best teacher at Cherrywood
and also my favorite. Thanks for letting me ref all the intermural
games. This year has been the best of all my Cherrywood history.
Your the best. Happy retirement!!!
Your Student,
Bubba – aka Evan Williamson
Knowing Jimmy Hunter…
Priceless.......
Happy retirement! Happy, Healthy Life!
We love you, Jim,
susan & ted
Happy retirement! Happy, Healthy Life!
We love you, Jim,
susan & ted
Hi Mr.Hunter it's me matthew a.k.a matt. Thank you for everything
Mr.Hunter. Your the best teacher ever. I hope I can teach like you some day.
Have a great tme in your retirermnt.
Dear Mr.Hunter,
I'm Jennifer and i would like to say a few words to you for your
retirement.
Since your leaving and you have been at cherrywood for 35 years, you
have been the best teacher at cherrywood. Thanks for teaching me ever
since i got in to your class.
love,
Jennifer Vu
hey mr
h
i got your
messageyou are very thoughtful
you are a
great person
i want to
thank you again for everything
i hope me
meet some day and i say hi
and you
might say who are
i will helop
you remember me
and dont
worry
i will keep
on emailing you untill the day you die
no offence
well
like i said
i will keep in touch and keep on emailing you
you wont
forget me because i will be emailing you untill i will forget you
witch i wont
the day u
are gone i will email you
your
welcome, Steven Vo
Mr Hunter!!!!
Heyyyyy Mr Hunter! I finally got a hold of your e-mail. In
case you didn't know already, it's your favorite former student, Emma
Betancourt. LOL. I heard youre retiring! I actually saw the link from Micah's
page. It's crazy, I'm already going to be 21 years old and it seems like
yesterday that I had just turned 11 in your 5th grade class. It's amazing how
time can fly by soooo fast. I left you a voicemail a while back saying that I'm
studying to be a teacher. I plan to do so too. You have changed my life in sooo
many ways Mr H, it's crazy! I will always remember your teachings and I hope
that if all goes well with my teaching career that I too will change childrens
lives and opinions. I will always remember the day we were on a field trip, I
forgot where but I remember that we were passing by some old broken up apartments
and you turned to our class and said " The option is yours, do you want to
live here, or live up there? " And pointed to the big houses on the
hills. And it's that right there that has stuck with me to this day. Growing
up, I see how hard the world is. I don't have my parents to take care of
everything for me, you know? So everything I have and do is because I work for
it. I work and go to school because in 20 - 30 years from now when my kids go
to school I want them to be set and not have to struggle like I have. And
you know what behind all that struggle, there's a teacher's voice that made it
allll happen and that is YOURS. You showed me a LIFETIME lesson in 1 year of
schooling. & I could never thank you enough for it all! It was crazy after
leaving your class and going onto middle school everything that you had ever
said was right. Everyone who you think is your friend isn't, there is peer
pressure everywhere you can imagine trying to get you in the wrong things, boys
mess up your focus, you have to choose the RIGHT circle of friends. It was and
will always be the greatest learning experience I have ever had and I only wish
that my future children could experience the same! I hope to carry on your
famous teachings onto my classroom one day Mr Hunter! Thanks for every check
that I got, for the yellings, and the wonderful teachings! It was molded me
into a intelligent person, one that I never thought I'd be! Enjoy your'e
retirement and never lose contact with me!
Emma Alyssa Betancourt
Dear Mr. Hunter,
I'd like to take this time to thank you for all the wonderful things you have taught my brother (Kevin Duong) and I. It's a sad thing that you are retiring, and no one wants you to do so. In the class of 06' - 07', you've taught me many things, and some ways to live, including to,"live this day to it's fullest, knowing it will never come back again" I heard of this website on my school's morning announcements, so I decided to write something for you. I'll miss you a lot, and I'll remember you for a really long time, including next year, the year after that, the year after that, and so on. You're the best teacher I've had so far, out of all the teacher's I've ever had. You've helped many students, teacher's and other people during the years of your career, and i hope you still do so after it. I remember the good memories in that class; chess club, drumming and dancing, pizza parties, game hour, and even running the mile! While in your class, you made me realize how intelligent i could be, and I've been doing good in my classes because of you. Once you retire, I don't know what the school would be like, without you. Since i won't be seeing you every Friday in chess club anymore, i want to wish you a long life that you can live peacefully. I'll always remember what the seeds of reality are, and that I am the only person who has the power to decide who I'll be.
Oodles of thanks,
Christine Duong
I'd like to take this time to thank you for all the wonderful things you have taught my brother (Kevin Duong) and I. It's a sad thing that you are retiring, and no one wants you to do so. In the class of 06' - 07', you've taught me many things, and some ways to live, including to,"live this day to it's fullest, knowing it will never come back again" I heard of this website on my school's morning announcements, so I decided to write something for you. I'll miss you a lot, and I'll remember you for a really long time, including next year, the year after that, the year after that, and so on. You're the best teacher I've had so far, out of all the teacher's I've ever had. You've helped many students, teacher's and other people during the years of your career, and i hope you still do so after it. I remember the good memories in that class; chess club, drumming and dancing, pizza parties, game hour, and even running the mile! While in your class, you made me realize how intelligent i could be, and I've been doing good in my classes because of you. Once you retire, I don't know what the school would be like, without you. Since i won't be seeing you every Friday in chess club anymore, i want to wish you a long life that you can live peacefully. I'll always remember what the seeds of reality are, and that I am the only person who has the power to decide who I'll be.
Oodles of thanks,
Christine Duong
Jim,
Whenever I look at the Walden West pool, I’ll think of
you. Thank you so much for sharing your gift of words to help us
fund the pool. Without you, we may still be looking for that pool
money.
On another note, during today’s end of the year camp
closing, we all shared special memories of the year. Several staff
members mentioned the impact of the campfire presentation of the CherrywoodSchool African Drum Group. Your
group brought tears to Sunshine and left the rest of the staff with lasting
memories. It was quite powerful to all of them.
You’ve been a fixture at Walden West longer than I can
remember. I’ll miss seeing you here.
For your retirement, catch that shooting star. We
hope some kind wind blows you back our way. If you’re looking for
things to do in your retirement, look us up.
Thank you for sharing all your gifts with Walden West.
Congratulations on your retirement!!!!!
Anita Parsons
About
a month ago, I was lucky enough to have met Jimmy Hunter. From the moment
I met him, I could tell there was something special about this man. The
enthusiasm with which he speaks captures the attention of all in the room at
that moment, and his deep insight absolutely stuns those that listen. I can
only immagine the impact that he had on the many children that he helped guide
throughout his 36 years of teaching. I am truly blessed for having gained a
friend in Jimmy Hunter.
Congratulations
on everything Jimmy, and enjoy retirement! I look forward to the many
adventures, and stories that lie ahead.
Dominic
Pezzoni
