After 25 years serving Carroll County Schools and Central High School as a substitute teacher, Mr. Dwight Durham is retiring. As a graduate of Central High School I personally had Mr. Durham as a substitute teacher several times. He was always one of my favorites, simply because he was stern and very much in charge. The classroom was in complete order with Mr. Durham subbing. Readers might not know, but Mr. Durham is an encourager, not only to the students but to the teachers and administrators.
It was brought to my attention while doing the interview for this article that Mr. Durham would write wonderful, uplifting notes to each of the teachers for whom he substituted. Linda Morris shared a few pivotal moments with us, “The sweet notes he would leave teachers: I remember several making comments about that. He would leave long, positive notes with the teachers about the students in particular.”
She continued, “I think what impressed me the most was how the kids respected him. They respond with a level of respect that they don’t share with the other substitute teachers. No one tested Mr. Durham–he always held that proud honor of serving.”
To me individually, Mr. Durham was like a lion, always standing tall, courageous, and bringing calm to the entire school as he walked through the halls. He definitely had that grandfatherly figure, almost like my own. I think much had to do with his previous service in the Navy.
Mr. Durham expressed that he always challenged the students to focus on all the many complicated aspects of studies so that they could actively think and make their brain grow, which he says is one of the most important things anyone can do. He continued, “You’ve got to be able to handle the challenges of a job, and this allows you to learn what you have to learn when you get out.”
He also reflected on how much he has enjoyed being a substitute teacher, “It has been one of the most enjoyable experiences I’ve done in my life to be a substitute teacher, not just because I’m teaching but also working alongside the kids. I try not to be hard on them, but try to make sure they concentrate on what they are doing. It’s what I think I’m there for.”
What many may not know is that Mr. Durham for all these years has walked to and from the school with his house only being 100 feet away. He laughed as he talked about the short distance to his house and to the school.
Those wanting to honor Mr. Dwight Durham can do so at a special presentation during the Veteran’s Day ceremony at Central High School on November the 11th at 10:00 A.M. in the Walker Gym.
