In 11th grade, I had a fantastic teacher named Peter Mehlbach. I remembered him recenly, and looked him up online. I found that he was still teaching, and reached out to see if it was, indeed, him. It was, so I sent him this e-mail.
This is a letter that is 21 years overdue, so I hope you’ll forgive the lateness.
I was a student at Chatfield from 87 to 91 and had you as my teacher in 11th grade. You gave me a C, which I’m sure was just you being generous as I’m sure I didn’t even deserve that. Looking back now, I wish I’d applied myself more.
As a parent now of 2 kids who’ve graduated high school (2 more in middle school), I have a much better appreciation for teachers and the work they do that I never had when I was in high school myself. I never imagined that any of my teachers would affect my life, but they did and I can see it now.
I can recall a few teachers that I liked, but when I think of those who really affected my life, honestly you are the one that always comes to mind.
I recall coming into class and hearing Enya playing on your CD player. That was my introduction to her music, which I still enjoy today.
I recall your enthusiasm for what you were teaching. It wasn’t a job to you, it was a passion. Because of that passion, it became much more interesting to me. To this day I still enjoy history, particularly the period of history which you taught in your class.
I recall you sharing personal stories that helped me to realize the importance of family, and appreciating them that I don’t recall other teachers sharing.
I recall you imparting your love of history to your students, who probably weren’t listening as you would have liked, but I’d like you to know that while I was not mature enough to show it then, I am now.
I appreciate that you were my teacher and that you made me a better person. Thank you for sharing your love of history with a bunch of 17 year olds and please know that you got through to at least one!
Thank you for making a difference in my life, and I’m sure the lives of all of those you have taught. It really is appreciated!
It felt really good to let a teacher know that even 20+ years later that their work was appreciated.
He replied:
Thank you for the kind words, Morgan. You have no idea what they mean to me. You made my day. Thank you.
I’m glad I sent the e-mail…I hope that I can find more teachers that I loved…