On Wednesday, October 5, Mr. Long passed away very suddenly. Mr. Long retired from West Perry last year, ready to spend time with his family. He began teaching in 1978 in Texas, where he and his wife previously lived, as an English teacher. One of his favorite novels to teach was The Great Gatsby. He worked thirty years as an English teacher and the rest as the High School's librarian. He had a strong love for literature and reading, especially science fiction. Mr. Long strongly impacted the student and teacher's lives during his time at the school. He worked alongside the library helpers and worked hard to make the students' experiences in the school enjoyable. Many students would say that he was a stickler for the rules, but that's not a bad thing. He kept a tight ship, making sure his library was in order at all times.
When faced with the news, teachers and students alike were emotionally impacted.
"He and I carpooled. When I first started, he was my mentor teacher. He continued in that role until his last day here. Our discussions on reading and literature that we had helped me be the teacher I am today- good or bad. Upon his retirement, it was hard to think about not having them anymore, but after the news... it's hard to think those discussions will never happen again." ~ Mr. Grippin, English Teacher
Mr. Long was always extremely friendly and personable. He shared many of the same opinions and views as his students and his goal was to make them happy. His passing has strongly impacted much of the student body as well as the teachers. He will always live on as a part of the school. Our best wishes to his friends and family. On October 20, Mr. Long's birthday, the school will be recognizing Mr. Long by having a Vest Day. Anyone who is interested in wearing a vest on that day is welcome to. This goes hand in hand with the school's goal to raise money to buy new books for the school library.
When faced with the news, teachers and students alike were emotionally impacted.
"He and I carpooled. When I first started, he was my mentor teacher. He continued in that role until his last day here. Our discussions on reading and literature that we had helped me be the teacher I am today- good or bad. Upon his retirement, it was hard to think about not having them anymore, but after the news... it's hard to think those discussions will never happen again." ~ Mr. Grippin, English Teacher
Mr. Long was always extremely friendly and personable. He shared many of the same opinions and views as his students and his goal was to make them happy. His passing has strongly impacted much of the student body as well as the teachers. He will always live on as a part of the school. Our best wishes to his friends and family. On October 20, Mr. Long's birthday, the school will be recognizing Mr. Long by having a Vest Day. Anyone who is interested in wearing a vest on that day is welcome to. This goes hand in hand with the school's goal to raise money to buy new books for the school library.