As English teacher Laurie Hyland’s career approaches its end, I asked her about some objects around her classroom that resonate with her.
When asked this question, she jumped at the opportunity to discuss the paintings found around her room, specifically a painting featuring a large beach scene imprinted on her right wall.
“Although they aren’t technically objects, they still represent an important part of who I am. The beach painting on my wall was completed by one of my former AP students who has a keen interest in art. When she asked what I wanted, I requested something calm and peaceful, and she suggested a beach scene. Every time I look at it, I think of her, and I hope it brings a sense of calm to my current students, too.”
Hyland has a special interest in nature and the world around her, so her second “object” that she highlighted in her classroom tour was that of another painting.
She explains, “When you first enter the room, you might notice a beautiful lake created by a former student a few years ago. I had been eager to add some color to my room, as we hadn’t been allowed to decorate our walls for years and so, with that I expressed my love for nature and flowers, and with the help of the students, they created flowers using their thumbprints.”
Besides having objects in her room that connect her with former students, she has many additional items that are sentimental to her personal life. For one, she has a wall of pictures displayed behind her desk.
“Every photo holds a memory of a student, some with whom I’ve had daily interactions, and others who I’ve only met occasionally.”
She also keeps family photos close by. “Family photos are always important to me.”
In addition to having physical objects in her classroom, Hyland notes some objects that she keeps on her at times that are personal to her life.
“I have a pendant of the Blessed Virgin Mary from Italy that my grandmother gave me. This connection to my heritage is meaningful, especially since it represents my family’s history.”
In reflecting on her time at Cinnaminson, Hyland said she hopes that her students recognize that she is always approachable as she wants to be someone that students can talk or come to about anything.
“I want you to see my dedication and understand that I strive to lead by example. While I am not perfect, I aim to encourage perseverance, kindness, and hard work. I hope that when you look at me and my belongings, it conveys that I care deeply about each of you and want to be approachable. My goal is to create an environment where you feel comfortable coming to me for help or advice.”
