Gonzalo Garza Independence High

School

July 25, 2017

Dear Sir or Madam:

I write this letter on enthusiastically on Marcanthony Torrezs behalf. Marc was a student of
mine during the spring and summer sessions the 2016-2017 school year at Garza Independence
High School, in English Language Arts IV B. While I only had Marc in class for a short period of
time, I did get the opportunity to observe him as he engaged in research, analysis, argument and
persuasion, and both academic and creative writing skills. It is through these experiences that I
came to know and respect his varied interests, maturity, and academic abilities. He is an
intelligent and perceptive student, capable of great success. Marc meets challenges with a
thoughtful and open-mind, qualities that are keys to his success.

Throughout the course, Marc displayed excellent communication skills. His spoken
communication and presentations were genuine and articulate. He excels when the project calls
for integrating multiple topics and skills, as well as considering multiple perspectives. He shines
when he has the opportunity to lend his own insight, creativity and humor to a project. In these
cases his work was both of high quality and relevant beyond the classroom.

In the time he spent in my classroom, Marc completed several assignments that stand out: an
analysis of two short stories that explored the themes of duty, loyalty, and friendship, and a final
research project answering the question Why do young men and women join gangs? This final
project was excellent. His annotated bibliography reflected thorough research and college-level
thinking. He not only completed a research essay that incorporated analysis of the novel, Home
Boyz, by Alan Lawrence Sitomer, as well as data from his sources, but he also drew a creative
poster to serve as a visual aid, and wrote an original song that he performed in front of a small
group of peers. I keep these assignments in my classroom as examples of quality work for future
students.

In addition to being a delightful student, Marc is a likeable person as well. He is personable and
open, and seems to easily find the balance between lets have fun and lets get this work
done. In group settings, he is a clear communicator, friendly and gracious, yet unafraid to state
his opinion or ask questions for clarification. He is an ideal team member who motivates her
peers.

While attending Garza, Marc consistently held a job and worked an average of 34 hours each
week. Despite these responsibilities and the inevitable exhaustion that accompanies being a
 Gonzalo Garza Independence High

School

working student, he came to class regularly, approached to his school work earnestly, and did so
with a smile and a positive attitude.

Finally, Marc respects the process of learning and enjoys exploring ideas and knowledge over
and above what is required. He will be a great addition to any class and I feel certain that he will
be successful at any University he attends, as well as any pursuit he chooses in his adult life. It is
with delight that I recommend him for any academic or employment opportunities.

Sincerely yours,

Julia Champine
English Language Arts Facilitator
(512) 414-8671