Mr. Norris's Tribute by Ann Norris

Mr. Norris’s Sticker Wall

randall_chase — 2021-05-17 02:43:15 UTC

One of my most memorable activities in Mr. Norris’s classroom was his sticker wall! We contacted companies throughout the country like: Rigid Industries, DarnTough Socks, HydroFlask, Buff, etc. and got their company stickers and placed them all over our wall map of America. Wherever their HQ was, we represented them with their sticker on the map!! That and, “Beam me up, Scotty!” are my two most memorable activity/moments from Mr. Norris’s class!

I remember having Mr. Norris as my social studies teacher in 7th grade and one of the fun memories I remember was learning and watching the U.S capitals song and jamming out at my desk.

anorris67 — 2021-05-17 17:13:42 UTC

--Alina Kockentiet, Class of 2024

EVERYTHING

2021-05-17 19:54:04 UTC

"LIKE A MAN"
"LEAVE MY CLASSROOM IF YOU DON'T WANT TO LEARN" THEN I LEft THE CLASSROOM.
--"The RON", Class of 2024

good class

2021-05-17 19:54:19 UTC

--Markus, Class of 2024

I really liked being in your class, and my favorite thing was when you left to go to your house :) You have a very convenient house

2021-05-17 20:56:54 UTC

---Izzy Kizer, class of 2025

I like how Mr Norris would say beam me up Scotty. That was really fun, also how he would always talk about random subjects.

2021-05-17 20:58:10 UTC

Mariah Dunning, class of 2025

Awesome teacher

2021-05-17 20:58:13 UTC

Mr. Norris always made class fun. We'd always vibe to countries of the world song while learning about Africa. He was definitely my favorite teacher in 7th grade.
-Maddie Hall, class of 2025

Great teacher

2021-05-17 20:58:35 UTC

I thought Mr. Norris was a great teacher and deserves an oscar. Like he always sayed, "Jarrett, stay in my classroom after the bell rings." What a great teacher man!!!

--Jarrett Gage, Class of 2025

Social Studies teacher/3d printer helper

2021-05-17 20:58:43 UTC

I liked having Mr. Norris's class because he was straight with us and kept us in line. I still remember most of the geography that he taught us. I did not have him for an 8th grade teacher even though it would have been fun if i did. He was just like a friend that is up for anything. He helped me 3d print so many cool things.

- Chance Carter, Class of 2021

MR. NORRIS WOULD GET MAD AND YELL, "WHAT IN THE SAM HILL!!!!!!"

2021-05-17 20:59:11 UTC

-Landino, class of 2025

2021-05-17 20:59:27 UTC

Mr. Norris was one of the best teachers i've had because he was always nice (if you were on his good side(:
-Andrew Baczuk, class of 2025

GREAT CLASS! WHOOP WHOOP!!!

2021-05-17 20:59:33 UTC

Okay! So I'm being completely honest. Mr. Norris is my most favorite teacher I've EVER had. Sorry other teachers but this guy is AWESOME. He is kind, trustworthy, funny, relatable, and outgoing. HE! IS! AWESOME!!!!!! I to, this day, remember the tune to The Countries of the World.
- Henry Goldstein class of 2025

It was a good and fun class to be in

2021-05-17 20:59:44 UTC

-Donovan Day, Class of 2025

Brown A.J.

2021-05-17 20:59:45 UTC

"He always complimented my food, but not my test scores."

-Angelo Tudela, class of 2025

we are going to miss you

2021-05-17 21:00:19 UTC

you were my favorite 7th grade teacher, I loved everything about your social studies especially, "beam me up scotty", the hand turkey's , and when you would randomly leave the class to go who knows where.
-Kinsey mishmash class of 2025

Listening to "countries of the world" over and over again.

2021-05-17 21:00:32 UTC

-Bailey Gittins, Class of 2025

2021-05-17 21:00:37 UTC

mhmhmhm "AGGRESSIVELY TAPS FINGER ON DESK" Thank you!! we learned a lot during your class!
-Elias, class of 2025

2021-05-17 21:02:53 UTC

Social Studies and Problem Solving was so fun! One of my favorite moments was when you joined us to flip the marker into the phone pockets and when you come into math class and try to figure out how to solve the problem.
--Kelsey Prax, Class of 2025

The hand turkeys was one of my favorite things in the class

2021-05-17 21:03:35 UTC

-Ryker Easton, class of 2025

"look me in the eyes like a man"

2021-05-17 21:04:42 UTC

-- Eli Critchlow, class of 2025

I also really enjoyed Mr. Norris's cheery disposition. He always seemed to be happy everyday... It rubbed off on me

2021-05-17 21:06:03 UTC

---Izzy Kizer, class of 2025

compliments

2021-05-17 21:06:48 UTC

"When you were first in my class, you were kinda a knot head, but now you're ok." (Two weeks into social studies.)

-Peter Vandermeulen, class of 2025

It's funny when you walk into math class and try to do the math we are doing but you don't understand it at all.

2021-05-17 21:07:34 UTC

-Morgan Hamilton, Class of 2025

"I'll wait" aggressive silence we stop talking "No, no, continue your conversation, I can wait". - Sam Passage- class of 2025

anorris67 — 2021-05-17 21:14:17 UTC

social studies.

2021-05-17 21:17:36 UTC

Your the only reason I know that minnesota looks like marge simpson, and kentucky looks like a chicken wing.
Peter Vandermeulen, class of 2025

Thank You, seriously, thank you.

2021-05-17 21:53:11 UTC

You taught me lots of things. From geography to lots of ELA terminology, along with life lessons. I loved your classes, they were always fun, (excluding M.A.P.S. and P.E.A.K.S. testing) and I wish you luck at your new post in the school system. Thank You for teaching me.

-William Crater, class of 2025

Goodbye Mr. Norris

2021-05-17 21:53:17 UTC

In your class it was fun to learn all the countries and states of the world.
Ezekiel Duncan, Class of 2025

History

2021-05-17 21:54:26 UTC

You are the reason I know my states and continents and the roads and cities of Alaska. I am thankful you were my teacher.
Dalen Beck, class of 2025

"You skunk head poop eater snot head 8th graders"

2021-05-17 21:54:46 UTC

I will forever live on by this quote.
-Kovai Christensen, class of 2025

"Tashaun Don't Ride The Tables!" I then proceeded to ride the tables as he looked at me :v)

2021-05-17 21:55:11 UTC

Tashaun Adams Class of 2025

Social Studies

2021-05-17 21:56:25 UTC

I loved that class with Mr.Norris because there was always a cool story. He made learning fun and the randomness of some scenarios where hilarious.
-Alex Aldrich, class of 2025

TABLE CAR

2021-05-17 21:57:46 UTC

"Don't Ride The Tables"
Tashaun Adams Class of 2025

Mr.Norris is such a kind and funny teacher and I wish I had the opportunity to learn from him.

2021-05-17 21:57:47 UTC

-Ava O'Brien, Class of 2025

Problem Solving was fun!

2021-05-17 21:58:15 UTC

Connor julius, class of 2025

I love the "amazing," "Friendly," "all nice things" talks we would have in the hall everyday because I was such a "good" kid in your class.

2021-05-17 21:59:04 UTC

-Kovai Christensen, class of 2025

That one person who doesn't jam out to "The Country of the World" song. 😂

2021-05-17 22:01:42 UTC

Jace Wadsworth, the class of 2025

You did show that desk who's boss.

2021-05-17 22:08:16 UTC

Ez Money-class of 2025

"You little hooligans are not going to get any where in your life if you keep this up".

2021-05-17 22:08:32 UTC

This is what will always live in my head. -Axel metzger class of 2027

Mr. Norris the best part of your class was the cleanup song! "i'll ride a million miles to be with you tonight"!

2021-05-17 22:11:51 UTC

Merrick M class-of 2027

I remember when Mr. Norris would say, "Beam me up scotty." Or the time he went to make biscuits and never came back to class.

2021-05-17 22:25:11 UTC

Holly Carter- Class of 2026

"GET OFF THOSE IDIOT BOXES" My favorite memory is when you started cutting strawberries in class.

2021-05-17 22:25:15 UTC

-Lola Compehos, class of 2026

Mr Norris, one of the best parts in your class is when you use "modern slang" like SHEESH and CUH

2021-05-17 22:25:47 UTC

Jace Branshaw, class of 2026

"Don't be going out there to flirt with any girls"

2021-05-17 22:25:58 UTC

-Thank you for the heads up -Jacob Reeves, Class of 2026

My favorite memory with Mr. Norris is him slamming his finger on the desk. Also he has cut up strawberries on me desk.

2021-05-17 22:26:18 UTC

Kyle Petersen Class of 2026

Thanks for being a great teacher and all the great stories made it a interesting class

2021-05-17 22:26:43 UTC

Mathious.T Class of 2026

I just remember when you would cut strawberries on Kyles desk.

2021-05-17 22:27:06 UTC

Carolyn class of 2026

I will always remember what you tell me in the hallways when I'm being "the best student ever."

2021-05-17 22:28:59 UTC

Carolyn

Strawberry ShortCake

2021-05-17 22:30:04 UTC

I remember in Social Studies 1st Period, you just started cutting strawberries on kyles desk, with a cutting board and a bowl, all set up. It was very funny!
-Savannah Barton, Class of 2026

"7th Grade Boys Are Like Dogs"

2021-05-17 22:30:54 UTC

Kyle Petersen Class of 2026

So Biscuits Happened

2021-05-17 22:32:21 UTC

Mr Norris made biscuits and that was that; why wouldn't that be a mid-class thing?

He is also the only one to recognize (I spelled it non-communist just for you) that my 'objective' opinion is completely correct in every way.

CM does stand for communist, doesn't it?

Oliver Ownbey
sorry I wrote a novel
Class of 2026 (that's not too far, is it?)

2021-05-17 22:40:03 UTC

"Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn." - Benjamin Franklin
Mr. Norris, Thank you, for teaching me where every continent, country, and state are located on the globe. You told us you wanted us to be successful. We have been successful since the day that you gave us "hard" work.
We will miss you next year.
Madison Sauls, Class of 2026

math

2021-05-17 22:43:17 UTC

"If you have a one in ten chance of guessing the first number of the code correctly, and you have four numbers in the code, what chance do I have of guessing this AirPlay code 100% correct? Somebody help me with this, I'm busy being cooler than Cronk."

"THE SAM HILL IS GOING ON IN HERE?!?!"

2021-05-17 22:43:41 UTC

Literally every time he walked in the classroom he would either walk in and say this or he would walk up to the desk and "pick on me" obviously being sarcastic with the pick on me thing!

~Trinity Stevens Class of 2026

"Ps. I like you too."

2021-05-17 22:47:45 UTC

This was THE MOST embarrassing thing in reading! So he asked me what I was reading and the book was called "Ps. I like you." and he knew that so I told him and he was just like "Ps. I like you too!" as a student of course. But I am so happy he was my teacher! Thank you for all the amazing stories of social studies and reading Mr. Norris!!!!

~Trinity Stevens Class of 2026

Mr. Norris You will be missed.

2021-05-17 22:50:00 UTC

"Why do your parents feed you?"

Robert Huston

Social Studies and Reading

2021-05-18 00:18:29 UTC

Thank you for teaching me the countries and states. Even though there were a lot of maps it was fun. And in reading loved all the stories and the books you picked were good.
You were a very fun teacher to have!
- Liana Adams, class of 2026

One of the best social studies/geography teachers...

2021-05-18 05:39:01 UTC

I’ll never forget how Mr. Norris would always have a cup of coffee in his hand. Like literally all the time. How he would always say “What in the Sam Hill” and how he told us that his doppelgänger was Harrison Ford. He would talk about that all the time!

2021-05-18 06:29:33 UTC

When he use to call us weirdys. Or the time Alex and Devin Freitag made the entire Jr high and high-school evacuate because of a geocache item that looked like a bomb on the school's fuel lines out back. Haha good times. You taught us alot of great morales, some manly stuff! Enjoy your retirement you have been so deserving of this and you will be missed!

Helped me be the man who I was

2021-05-18 06:31:57 UTC

I was something of a trouble maker in high school, honestly Mr. Norris had to kick me out of his class a lot, but one day he decided to show the stock he had building for his children. He showed us how to invest, what stocks were, how it grow, all to a bunch of 7th graders on a projector. Even though I was a trouble maker in school, I became a banker at 18 right out of school, and I probably wouldn’t be there without this man.

Mixed Block 2008

2021-05-18 06:34:12 UTC

Bristle bots, Mrs. Cratchit’s pudding, Prom tips with Kipp, and every life lesson we didn’t know we needed but are now thankful for. Thank you for all you’ve given to our community!

Colleen Murphy, Class of 2014

2021-05-18 06:47:08 UTC

Pretty crazy I moved here back in 2000. Mr Norris was my teacher. 21 years later he’s a teacher for my children.

Thanks, Pops!

2021-05-18 06:49:20 UTC

Pops- I was nervous to be in your class in 7th grade because I thought I would be embarrassed a lot. I quickly realized you were actually the favorite teacher of many. The only time I was embarrassed was when I got sent out to “the pit.”

It was funny when you sent students to the teacher’s lounge to get you coffee and how you told them, “Make it the color of the Copper River.”

The writing skills that you taught stuck with me. Once a college professor complimented my writing and I said, “yeah, I had my dad for language arts in 7th grade and he told us to say what we are trying to say in as few words as possible.” Somehow we learned a lot in your class without ever being assigned much homework; time in your class was always well spent, engaging, and entertaining.
- Hannah Grewe, class of 2012

Long ago in the Temporary buildings out back

2021-05-18 06:52:06 UTC

The year was around 1996 and we had classes in the “temporary” classrooms that Mr Norris probably taught forever in. We were past the library, in the creaky, creepy and COLD rooms in the old GHG Junior High. Mr Norris was called into the main building for an emergency and a class full of 7th graders were left alone for 30 minutes. We all decided a marker fight would be the most constructive way to spend our freedom. He returned with a classroom full a kids covered in Sharpie and marker from head to toe! The lesson learned was to have self-discipline and control. We knew the rules and routine and should have continued with our work. The punishment was a class in detention. We all sat at our desks with our hands placed on top and if someone moved their hands, the time started over! At the time, it felt like torture but it was also a lesson learned for so many kids. My nose has never itched so much in my life! Mr Norris spent his lunch with a bunch of knot heads learning respect and self discipline and I know his impact was crucial than and for the 20+ years since. I still laugh after all these years.

He was always a favorite of mine and wish him the best in the future!

Sincerely, The Swiss Army Thanksgiving Turkey of ‘97

2021-05-18 06:52:23 UTC

"Sit your butts down and cut the 🤬! Y'all won't learn anything if you're all at ends with eachother." Mr. Norris was a breath of fresh air when he came to VHS. Someone who would tell you like it was. Both my kids today think he is one of the best!
Dan Kiser class of 1997.

Mr Nooress

2021-05-18 06:57:08 UTC

My favorite memory has to be you peeking into my classroom at HHES ( you were there with a reading class to partner with 2nd graders) One of my preschoolers spotted you. “Who is that guy?” So i said “ that it Mr. Norris”. To which one responded “ Let him in, he looks like he wants to SING with us”. 😳🎶. They all ran and hugged you like they had known you forever. They had a hard time pronouncing your name. It sounded more like Mr. Noress. (He did not sing) With covid and the restrictions, your reading buddy program ended. I have missed those things this year. The Middle school kids sharing with our students and seeing great teachers, like you, in our building . Time is sure flying, I have enjoyed teaching along side you (in a far away land called HH) Congratulations on your new position.
Leslie Bauman

The walk

2021-05-18 07:30:16 UTC

Mr. Norris . You had hope in all students and for that I thank you. Often times while I was a young man in he high you would catch me being a young man. Acting a fool and saying off the wall garbage, but you must of some how understood me. You would take me on walks through the hall ways when I should of been being a nice young man. You would bring me to a level playing field to get in touch with my self. You taught me a lot. You shared compassion and understanding. You gave me a chance. You gave me... confidence.. It’s funny because we never really shared a class room, but you cared more then most. Thank you Kip, for your words and most of all your ears were inspiring to any future youth you influenced. A man among boys, shaping boys to be men. I will forever be thankful. Mr. Cockerham would ask “what does integrity mean?” I would think of you both, it’s about doing the right thing when no ones looking. Our private walks around the halls of the old Gilson middle school was just that. You are the definition of integrity. Thank you Kip for seeing the light in all students. I will never forget the honesty you blessed us all with. I wish you the best, And thank you for being more then just another teacher.

2021-05-18 07:43:06 UTC

Thank you for your amazing class. I still talk about your life lessons you taught us to this day and it will continue in the future. You are one of the real teachers who cares about their students and for that I thank you. You made school fun and an enjoyment to go to. One of my best memories of you making guacamole in the middle of our class for the welcoming of the new teachers moving up to teach at the middle school. You had picked me to go, leave campus, to grab the chips. Another story I’ll remember are the ones you told about Mrs. Norris, Sam trying to whip and nae nae in the mirror, and the some other stories. I will forever miss you as my teacher and wish you the best.
-Anna Price, 2021 graduate

2021-05-18 11:20:01 UTC

I’ll never forget when Matt Michael and I were training for western regionals for wrestling and he would stop the class and let us do our push ups and sit ups, and then when we were done get back to it.

I always had a blast in his class, couldn’t have asked for a more funny or stand up guy. I hope you have a great retirement

Jesse Deaton
Class of 2012

Copper River Coffee

2021-05-18 11:59:02 UTC

If Mr. Norris REALLY trusted you, you might have been sent to the teachers lounge to get coffee where you were to recreate the copper river with a blend of coffee and creamer.
Mr. Norris is one of the best teachers. I learned WHY I needed to care about my education. He was always trying to teach us boys how to be men.
Matt, Class of 2012

2021-05-18 12:57:27 UTC

I was there your first year, I was in seventh grade social studies. You were a wonderful teacher, always willing to talk to us about whatever we were interested in.
And I was so happy that you were still here when my own son went through junior high!

Nicole Tifft, Class of 1997

Bacon

2021-05-18 14:12:34 UTC

I love walking into the staff room to the smell of bacon, and there’s Mr.Norris with a frying pan just “frying up some odds and ends” for us. Thank you for always being so thoughtful. ~Mrs.Cason

2021-05-18 18:15:13 UTC

Mr. Norris' class was my first when I started at Gilson Jr. High. It was September of 2010, my family had just moved up from Washington and I was a month late starting school. He was very accommodating, and while he had high expectations that made me nervous, I soon realized that he genuinely cared about his students, especially the ones that were willing to put in the work. I credit him as one of people that truly made me a better writer. I will always remember how he liked his coffee, the same shade of brown as the Copper River. Thank you for your service Mr. Norris.

--Stuart Relay class of 2016.

Wang Chung

2021-05-19 01:02:25 UTC

Never will I ever be able to listen to “Everybody Have Fun Tonight” by Wang Chung without thinking of being back in your 7th grade classroom. You are an incredible teacher, and I only have good memories of being in your class.
Thank you for your patience with the class of 2020. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us.

- Caitlyn Childs, class of 2020

“If the sub says poop...”

2021-05-19 01:20:52 UTC

A conversation about respecting the sub: “If the sub says run, you say ‘how fast?’ If the subs tell you to jump, you say ‘how high?’ If the sub says poop, you ask ‘what color?’”

As a seventh grader, I thought you were hilarious, and I still often find myself laughing about your class. You had an unhealthy obsession with “Renegades” by XAmbassadors; I swear you listened to it on repeat, every class. I hated how much grammar we did, but now I thank you because unlike some of my classmates, I know what differentiates a noun from an adjective and every rule in between. I am blessed to have had you as a teacher. You were a joy to be around.

-Emma Childs
Class of 2021

I had Mr. Norris for several classes, but I always remember him as being fair and well respected by the majority of students. The one memory that sticks out to me is him coming into class to teach with a kidney stone. Him literally sweating and pausing during the presentation and me sitting there in horror and awe of his commitment. Later on in life I had a kidney stone as well and seriously have no idea how he stood up there and carried on like he did.

2021-05-19 04:25:46 UTC

-Maria Schaeffer, Class of 2021

2021-05-19 04:45:04 UTC

Idiot boxes

Mr. Norris calls laptop computers idiot boxes because kids are always on them and he can’t get them to work!
-Graham Robison

Animal Farm

2021-05-19 05:20:25 UTC

I remember our discussion about the book "Animal Farm" and how engaging it was, trying to enlighten our spirited middle school minds... what a task! A specific moment from this discussion that sticks out: you asked us each what animal we would choose to be on that farm and a cheeky classmate yelled out "A 🤬"! As we all giggled/gasped, you pointed right out the door down the ATCO hall and said "you know where to go"... pretty sure you followed him to the principal's office with a soft chuckle though, ha!
Your humor was appreciated as well as your life lessons and true love of coffee, thank you for all your dedication to kids of Valdez and all my best on your path into retirement

Kate Goudreau, Class of 2002

My favorite was when Ann would stop by the class to ask you a professional question and you would say "are you here to flirt with me?" The kids reactions was classic! Mr. Norris you are one of a kind!!!! I am so thankful to know you and have had the opportunity to work with you!

2021-05-19 16:44:51 UTC

Mary Kathryn

You will be missed at GMS

kkeller61 — 2021-05-19 17:36:49 UTC

I've only been working side by side with you at GMS for the past 5 years, but what I'll miss the most is the candid, random conversations that took place throughout the day. Thank you for those times that you popped in to check on me professionally and personally. Thank you also for "parenting" Grace & Ginger when they were here - there was comfort in knowing you were educating them with academics and character traits.
-Kim

Stories

2021-05-19 18:44:41 UTC

I will miss Mr. Norris's stories. I love hearing about the good times with staff and students. Sometimes we hear about the time he drove off without Rod... :)
Kipp, you are an amazing teacher. I am so grateful for all the things you taught my children. You taught way more than academics, you taught life skills. As a colleague, I appreciated you always checking in to see how my day was going. YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED!

Best of luck on the next chapter!
-Kim Hansen :)

2021-05-19 19:56:53 UTC

Thank you for your kindness. Your room is one of the top clean and organize room at GMS.
Sasithon Jenn

Coach

2021-05-19 21:54:42 UTC

I still remember the Coach Norris days!
You always have a way to get kids motivated
beyond what they think they are capable of.
Having worked with you for the past 5 years I can see the respect kids have for you, and I think it’s because you really care about them and you have a gentle a quiet spirit that people are drawn to!
Congratulations on your big move to the Admin building

Kidney Stones...

2021-05-20 01:41:40 UTC

Warren Williams – Class of 2019

Mr. Norris was my 6th grade block teacher during the 2012-13 school year. While looking back at his classes I am trying my best to use my proper English skills he taught me. Mr. Norris always and I mean always had a smile on his face. This included April fools day while twenty, 11-12 year old boys all had a prank for the teacher.
My favorite class hour to date was Mr. Norris explaining how painful a kidney stone can be -especially at a formal dinner. The presentation included acting, a ruler, pictures, and a real example. Jokes aside, Mr. Norris still remains as my favorite teacher or professor. This is coming from a senior in college. His upbeat personality and fun teaching style were productive even in a 6th grade classroom. I am forever grateful for his teachings in English, writing, kidney stones, and how to be a respectful young man. I wish Mr. Norris the best in retirement and plan on eating more of his delicious fish fries!

Nothing specific

2021-05-20 02:52:49 UTC

I can’t remember a specific assignment that you had us do or a particular concept that altered my life path. But, I will always remember the general feeling of class. It was always welcoming, upbeat, engaging, and after hearing “stop dragging your feet!” while walking to your classroom... I did indeed stop dragging my feet.

People comment that I walk “cheerfully” and it’s because the muscle memory from lifting heavy shoes meant for skateboarding (very high fashion at the time) was ingrained after middle school.

It takes a very special person to put up with budding teenagers for any duration—so the fact that you did it for 30 years with such impact is incredible. Thank you for sharing your gift with the community (& thank you for making me pick my feet up).

- Melissa (Grammer) Merioles, class of 2009

Unforgettable

2021-05-20 03:41:06 UTC

Andrew Williams
Class of 2020
All I can say is I wouldn’t be who I am today without the life lessons Mr Norris taught everyday in his classroom.

Boy Block Class Introductions

2021-05-20 03:45:44 UTC

When we first started the boys block classes in the old junior high school, Mr. Norris started the class by saying..... just because were all boys doesn’t mean it ok to burp, fart, pick your nose or scratch yourself in class. We going to be gentleman.

Rod Morrison

2021-05-20 06:11:31 UTC

Kipp,

I admire how you constantly push and challenge yourself to keep on learning and try new things. You are always game for testing out a new educational platform or teaching method. The wise words that flow through your classroom are forever a part of your legacy. You teach so much more than academics. Your teaching goes beyond the classroom. It has been a privilege to teach in the same school as you. I am grateful for your guidance and help at Gilson Middle School. You will be missed!

Katy Thompson

2021-05-20 06:57:25 UTC

Mr. Norris , you will be missed at GMS, by both students and staff. It has been a pleasure to work with you as a colleague and friend. I will miss your wit and wisdom, and especially your eye for grammar goofs, misspelled words and ear for mispronunciations!
Teresa Huston

Fastest Girl

2021-05-20 07:12:27 UTC

Mr. Norris was a favorite Jr. High teacher of nearly everyone in my class. We enjoyed his teaching/interaction style, sense of humor, and especially his stories. One story that I remember is when someone asked him how he met Mrs. Norris. He went on to explain how she was by far the fastest girl at their university, and became Mrs. Norris "because she was the only one who could catch me".

-Jonathan Michaud, Class of 2001

Woodshop

2021-05-20 10:27:24 UTC

I am class of 2010 and had Kipp in my junior years 2005-2006. Wood shop was an elective I had with him and I was the only girl. I also had Geography with him but I remember Woodshop best because of the special projects we worked on. Kipp was always very patient with his students and he made sure we had all the tools we needed to succeed. I had selected a end table for my project and wanted cherry wood desperately. Unfortunately there wasn’t enough to make the table top but Kipp found a beautiful Maple wood and helped me select a lovely stain. The wood was almost purple and I loved how it turned out. I still have it at my parents house. Besides this memory I remember many of his witticisms from church and school. I loved when he called us his “chuckle heads” or “goobers”. He never got mad and his class was always cheerful and full of calm energy. It made me wish I’d had him for more classes. Sunday school too was so much fun! I remember his old dog that slept by the fireplace (a bulldog?). Thank you Kipp for being a wonderful teacher and a wonderful friend. We appreciate all your years of teaching and mentoring.
-Jessilin

2021-05-20 21:31:49 UTC

Twins

Student Teaching

2021-05-20 22:31:20 UTC

Kipp,
I’m incredibly grateful to have been paired with you for student teaching. The experience helped solidify my desire to teach and have a classroom of my own one day. Thank you for trusting me with your classes, and giving me a space to succeed and sometimes struggle. You were always there to listen and offer advice. I enjoyed our morning talks, and hold the knowledge you have imparted on me close to my heart. I carry the knife you gave me every day when I go fly. On it you had engraved “Keep up the good work.” To me it serves as a reminder that no matter what you’re doing in life, you should give it your all. It’s like the speech I watched you give the students on the very first day of school. You told them; “If you don’t want to be here and don’t want to learn, the door is open. Get up and leave.” I can assure you that wasn’t the first day of school speech I was expecting to hear, but it resonated with me. Thank you for everything.

-Megan Morton

You're the best Pops!

2021-05-21 02:18:13 UTC

When I first realized that you were going to be my teacher I was very nervous/scared/excited. I was in the all boys class which for anyone who taught the class of 2020 knows what a handful we were. Aside from all the history and writing skills he taught us(which I still use to this day) his lessons on how to be a man stuck with me the most. As a teachers kid, it was always hard to come up with a good excuse on why I’m in trouble. He already heard from all the teachers the actual reason why I’m sitting in the hallway and not in class.

He always kept the classroom energy fun. No matter what was happening he seemed to have the class laughing most of the day. As much as I hate to admit it(cause he’s my dad) he is the funniest teacher I’ve had. He did like to use me as an example in a lot of his stories which frequently ended in the class knowing way more about me than I was ready for, but always ended in a good life lesson.

Thanks for being such a great teacher Pops,
Sam Norris

You are my Sunshine

anorris67 — 2021-05-21 04:15:03 UTC

...And my favorite person on Earth. I've been blessed to see you teach our four kids both in the classroom and at home. I was always relieved when they landed in your room--I knew they would have a fine education in many respects. Thank you!
Your influence on me and my teaching career is immense. In fact, I wouldn't be teaching without you. You rescued me from, "being a stuffy scientist in a cubicle somewhere." Thank you for leading me down this path, being by my side, encouraging me along the way, helping me learn from failure, and celebrating successes.
You've served Gilson Middle School well since 1991 and I've sure enjoyed hearing the "Mr. Norris" stories in my classroom throughout the years--sometimes chuckling and other times cringing. You are such a wonderful mentor to teachers and students alike.
Love you!
--Ann, Class of a Lifetime, fastest girl on campus

Well Done

2021-05-21 05:36:26 UTC

Pops,
It is encouraging and inspiring to read these comments of all the lives you have touched in your dedication and service to education. I remember spending a few sessions in “the pit” outside your room when you were my teacher. Your firm hand is more appreciated than I can express and I owe much of the credit of where I am and what I’ve accomplished to you.

I can’t thank you enough for not only being my 7th grade teacher, but being my teacher, father, and friend for 24 years and more to come. I hope you can look back on your time and see just a snapshot of the lives you’ve touched. Job well done, and I know that you will continue to do the same for the next 30 years. I am a blessed and better man to have you.

Love you,
Trevor Norris Class of 2015

Well done.

2021-05-21 15:12:46 UTC

Pops,
The Junior High is a stepping stone for all Valdez students, and your classroom was an especially impactful place.
You're a gifted teacher and dedicated to developing your students' character. Your personality kept classes fun and memorable. You led us in working hard and playing hard, demanding that we grow up, but also turning daunting tasks (like memorizing every country's location) into games. Somehow, the most work, most fun, most discipline, and most laughing happened in your classroom at the end of the footstep-amplifying hall.

Before 7th grade, I worried that being in your class would open up a door for embarrassment. Instead, I saw how much you are respected and appreciated by your students. The embarrassment didn't come until High School, where I learned your chest hair was legendary.

Rylee Norris, Class of 2017

Around the world

2021-05-21 18:18:06 UTC

I loved that no matter where I was in the world you would still find a teaching moment. You were always so open to new things and having me on Skype from another country just sounded fun to you. Thank you for all your great teaching moments. Especially the ones we didn’t expect.

Well done!

2021-05-21 19:16:21 UTC

Mr. Norris,
Thank you for being like a second father figure in my life. Not only in school but outside school as well. You’ve raised four wonderful children and I’ve learned a lot from you as well. I remember going into middle school was scary but you were a familiar face which brought a little bit of ease. Some of my favorite memories were running to your classroom after school to see if Sam & I could hangout and there would always be a list of questions for that kid. All my friends that were in your class, loved having you as a teacher and EVERY day there was a new funny story. You’ve impacted so many lives in a positive way and I’m grateful to be one of them. You will be so missed, but I’m sure I’ll see ya around ;)!!
-Grace Keller, Class of 2020

2021-05-21 19:16:23 UTC

Thank you for making my writing better to this day. I remember ber you saying, if you get rid of the words "think", "then", and "that" you'll be a much more professional writer. I still use that advice 10 years later!

My Favorite Junior High Teacher

2021-05-21 20:25:38 UTC

Kipp,

I could talk about my junior high memories of you: reading Animal Farm, or getting detention for the first time because me and a couple other students got into a marker fight in your classroom. What I really want to focus on is how much of an inspiration you have been to me; first as a student, and now as a co-worker. You have always pushed me to be my best self, even now as an adult. I can never thank you enough for that. For making me step outside my comfort zone and try new things, for believing in me. Thank you for being a TRUE teacher, a person who inspires and cares. I feel incredibly blessed that two of my children had the opportunity to work with you. You presence in the classroom will be missed more than words can express.

Jamie Mayer (Lee)
Class of 2001

Hard Decisions

2021-05-22 03:28:59 UTC

Mr. Norris,
It has been a privilege to grow up with a teacher like you. The memory that resonates with me most when thinking back to your class was when a group of us got in trouble in the library. When you found out who had been involved, you sent them to the principle's office. However, I had been part of that group as well and I wasn't sent to the office. I was terrified to tell you that I had been there because I had come to value your opinion; you had earned my respect. More than anything, I wanted to be someone who was deserving of your respect too. I gathered up the courage to tell you that I had also been in the library. After I told you what had happened, instead of disappointment in your eyes, I saw admiration. You thanked me for my honesty and then you told me that you had known I had been there, but the librarian had told you who had been causing trouble and I wasn't one of them. In that moment I knew that I had done the right thing. Sometimes doing what's right is the hardest decision you'll ever make. You were one of the first people to help me learn this lesson and I'm so grateful for that. As I've matured, choices have become much harder than fessing up to getting in trouble in the library, but throughout all of life's challenges, my character has never faltered. You are one of the people I have to thank for that.

"Hard choices, easy life. Easy choices, hard life." -Jerzy Gregorek

Jane Sharrai, Class of 2017

2021-05-22 06:32:23 UTC

Mr. Norris, I didn’t personally have the pleasure of being in your class; however, I was in the same building as you and you brought so much joy and laughter to the school with your kind soul and witty humor. The VCS district was blessed to have you as an educator. Thank you for all your time as a teacher, WE LOVE YOU!