“…our courts are great levellers, and in our courts all men are created equal.” This is the quote that had been drummed into our brains before our Level 3 English exam. Every time I was asked to recite it, I’d forget it. However, now I know it off by heart. Mrs Galvan is so passionate about all her students and would always do everything in her power for us to achieve our goals. If it was staying behind at school till 6pm or coming during her busy weekends, she’d do it.

For many of us she was our rock, our shining star. Knowing that whatever you told her, she’d give great advice and she’d make sure you were OK. Everyday she would make us feel welcome by having a great big smile on her face that was warm and comforting. Having her as a teacher is a real privilege because I feel she has taught me, and others, so much about life, family and attitude. I’m certainly sure that so many people would not be where they are without her influence and her advice with them.

When I was asked to write something for this years 2008 year book I thought it would be a breeze but now it’s totally different. There is so much I would like to say about this great woman but not enough time. But as I write I think “I wonder if Mrs Galvan would like what I am writing?” However, I started to remember how emotional she was and I can see the tears glazing over her eyes from when Maggie gave her a Christmas card. This reassured me that she would appreciate anything that is writing in memoriam of her.

There are things that I will never forget about her and I’m sure many of you that are reading will know what I am talking about. St Patrick’s Day was one of her favourite days of the year because it gave her an excuse to dress as a leprecon and dance like a lunatic. Orange and green lollies would be handed out as Irish music lingered in the back round. Every now and then before the end of class she would make us all stand up and sing “God Save The Queen” and the National Anthem in English and in Maori. These are the sorts of things that you don’t appreciate until their gone.

A few students I know have said that she has inspired them to pursue their career at Drama School. To know that Mrs Galvan has changed student’s lives and encouraged them to do what they really want to do is so meaningful to those select people. She has taken so many student overseas for a once in a life time experience to Japan. Last year I had the privilege to be one of those students who got to travel to the town of Kitiabiraki with Mr and Mrs Galvan. That experience will forever be with me as it was so life changing and opened my eyes to so many things.

Sitting outside her classroom now is a challenge. Plastered upon the walls is work from many students over countless years. The plants she used to get us to name are still sitting on her desk along with everything else. The clock that we never bothered to fix has it hands stuck at 12.20. In that one classroom, her knowledge has been passed on so many students and maybe one day, we can evolve into the wonderful woman she truly is.

Fly free Mrs Galvan. We will never forget you and you will be forever in our hearts.

Love Liana Denton-Giles and Wairoa College Students.