Janet Edwards
I was at an graduation party that was outside a few weeks ago and a friend asked me about a plant she saw. I immediately identified it and all the other plants around it. Then I told her and my 13 year old daughter that the only reason that I knew those plants was because my teacher in 5th and 6th grade, Mr Barone, had us create Florida plant binders, identify plants, and put the leaves in clear sleeves. I proceeded to tell her how he taught us the stock market by having each of us invest $10,000. We researched companies, tracked our stocks, and tallied our gains/losses. He also had us draw blueprints of our dream houses and had to budget for the materials. All this in elementary school! What a transformative teacher. He not only taught subjects but life. Not just life, but the love of life. He saw our weaknesses and gently challenged us to overcome them. He opened up a world of opportunities for his students, me especially. I was so fortunate to visit Carl and Wanda a few times in Hudson to see all the latest projects and beautiful plants.It warmed my heart to see him so happily retired. I will forever be indebted to this great man.
