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Keith Harrington, Poultney Vt. Teacher

“Hi Coach,
Thank you so much for the shirt and autographed book. I appreciate it.

Yesterday I had my shirt on and everyone in the school was asking about it. I shared information on your website and the 8 characteristics with my class. They decided that they wanted to take the initiative to spread the Act with Respect Always concept with everyone at Poultney Elementary. We talked about “What is your 99?”

Before I even finished my lesson, a 5th grader in my class named Brielle, came up to me with the attached completed poster design that she asked to make copies of, to hand out to students, and hang around the school. I was amazed at the leadership role that she took.

A little about Brielle, she may not be my top student, but is a sweetheart of a kid. Brielle has been through a lot and has shared some of her ‘invisible backpack’ with me. She is simply a wonderful young girl and has inspired me so much.

She asked if I could please send her work to Coach Johns. I said that I certainly would. Although you haven’t visited yet, the Act with Respect Always ball is beginning to roll here at Poultney Elementary School.

When I read, in your book, about you being “disenchanted” with what you were seeing in your world, and how you disagreed with how some situations were handled, it spoke directly to me. I also could relate to you saying, “The fabric of my being would not allow me to sit back and watch.” Personally, I have done just that for several years.

I told my class, “We are going to, as a group, start to make a difference and bring a change to the culture of our school.”

All indications are, that they are willing to jump on board.

I hope you enjoy Brielle’s work. I will keep you posted and I hope to meet you soon.”

Keith Harrington
Teacher
Poultney (Vt.) Elementary School