I followed my curiosity about Walz’s teaching career down a wormhole this morning. This thread just scratches the surface.
But I have two more pressing things to say about what I learned.
1/2
1.) Tim Walz taught in the Alliance School District for only 4 years, but somehow in that short time he coached three football teams, men’s & women’s basketball, & middle school girls track. He also launched foreign exchange & summer abroad programs, & a scholarship…
2/6
He co-curated (with his future wife) the local history museum. All while serving on that National Guard & getting additional teaching certificates from nearby colleges.
Tim Walz was that kind of indefatigable teacher. We all know & love one. Many of you are ones.
3/6
Tim Walz was by all indications a teaching All-Star. He was doing experiential, curational pedagogy before there was such a thing.
That said…
2.) If Tim was an All-Star, Gwen Walz (Whipple) was MVP. Holy Shit. She started winning state teaching awards like instantly.
4/6
She launch a speech & debate team her first year. By year three it was top in the state, winning every category. Her team had 40+ students. The school board had special meetings just to approve her budget!
5/6
She also coached the cheerleading team, co-directed the annual musical, & gave piano lessons.
The Walzes are so my people. I can hardly bear it.
I’M ALL THE WAY IN!
If you like this thread, you'll probably like my podcast.
marktwainstudies.com/twentytwentyfo…
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