December 6th, 2018
To Whom It May Concern,
It is my absolute pleasure to write a letter of reference for Ryan Devine. He was an excellent addition to my classroom,the students and I were sad to see him leave at the end of his time at Westmount High School.
Ryan and I began working together in August of 2018, for the duration of his 15 week stage. His transition into the classroom was seamless. He was initially given a Grade 7 English course load, but was keen to work with both my Grade 9 English classes, as well as my Grade 7 Geography class. He was an asset to all classes.
From the first time I witnessed Ryan teaching, it was clear that he had the motivation and ease in the classroom needed to be a great teacher. Although it was not required, he was quick to create a projects in the Grade 7 Geography class. Ryan was also eager to work with a variety of special needs students in my classes, ranging from Second-Language English students, students on the Autism spectrum, as well as learning to communicate with a hearing impaired student. Ryan can now add basic American Sign Language to his list of skills.
Mr. Devine, was keen to learn. When there were improvements to be made, or a lesson tweaked, he took the advice well, and progress took place quickly. He created completely new novel studies in both Grade 7 and 9, as well as helping me improve the tried and true assignments I have been doing for ages. I appreciated the fresh approach he brought to my classroom. He maintained professionalism and composure, even when faced with the trials of teaching teenagers.
When Ryan first arrived to my classroom, I explained to my students that they were given the responsibility to help “create a teacher.” They understood the importance of that job, and are proud of their role in his success. I have no doubt he has made a positive impact during his time here at Westmount High School.
I have every confidence that Ryan will be an excellent addition to the teaching profession. His knowledge of his subject and the enthusiasm he brings to a classroom is remarkable. I am proud to say we worked together. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Melissa Bergevin
Westmount High School
mbergevin@emsb.qc.ca
December 5, 2018
SUBJECT: Letter of Support for Ryan Devine
I am delighted to be writing this letter of support for Ryan Devine. I first met Ryan in 2009 when he was in my Composition I class at Concordia University. In the initial weeks of class, Ryan showed himself to be knowledgeable, well-read, and well spoken. But it was his first assignment that caused him to stand out.
For this assignment, students were tasked with writing a personal essay based on the 5-paragraph structure. The essay was due in the week following Ryan’s break-up with a long-time partner. Rather than avoid his responsibility or even ask for an extension, Ryan turned in a perfectly structured essay that argued why the breakup was the right thing for both parties. To my mind, this is where Ryan excels. He is a strong writer who not only understands structure and the rules of writing, but also expertly employs this understanding in the service of expression.
Following this initial course, I had the pleasure of teaching Ryan again in Composition II and The Creative Process. In all classes, he brought his careful consideration to discussions and assignments. He received top marks in all three of my classes and continued to contribute throughout.
I could not be happier that Ryan has chosen to study education with the goal of becoming a teacher. I believe that his dedication to thought and learning as well as his understanding of others, including the most marginal, will help him make a valuable contribution to our society.
Sincerely,
Alexandra Pasian
Part-time Faculty, English
Concordia University
A View to Thrill 