Watkins Glen High School - Senecan Oracle Yearbook (Watkins Glen, NY)

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THE ORACLE He has charge of the instruction of most of the foreign languages, also a part of the ancient history and is very proficient along these lines. At Syracuse University he made a specialty of foreign languages, was graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Aits, and gained so many honors that he was made an honorary member of the society Phi Beta Kappa Mr. Beers is always goo:l natured—never scolding in or out of the class-room-ever ready and willing to give help or aid of any sort. And not only in the classroom has he been devoted to our interest but much of what has been attained in athletics is the result of his unceasing efforts, as he takes great interest in the boys and their success in basket and baseball. Professor Beers has been indentified with Watkins High School for four years and we are hoping that his stay may be prolonged for many years. As preceptress, Miss Frances MacDowell has successfully aimed to advan ce the interest of this school for two years. The sciences are under her di rection and she truly understands these subjects. Not only dors she understand them herself but she has the ability to impart this knowledge to her pupils in such a manner that they readily understand and become interested in the subject under consideration. She has visited many places of interest, not only in this state, but also in the western states, the Rockv Mountains Yellowstone Park and various other places of interest. Thus through personal observation is she aided to portray many points of interest in her line of work. Miss MacDowell was graduated from Elmira College with the degree of Bachelor of Science. While there, part of her attention Was turned toward social life, she at one time being president the Phi Mu society. Here she has always been willing to assist in instituting and advancing social functions. She at one time taught at Watervliet and there as well as subsequently her work was characterized by being logical as to processes, careful as to detail and clear in presentation. In short, she seems to have a scientific mind and a singular efficient way of presenting scientific truths. Whatever or wherever her work in the future may be, the best wishes of • her pupils follow her. • In our English and history teacher, Miss Jane M. Haring are found thos'’ qualities which constitute an ideal teacher and friend. She has been inde-fatiguable in her efforts to fit herself for her work. Though without the privileges of a college training, by determination, and hard, constant work, she has gained knowledge and a vigor of mental power farahead of many who possess a college training. She is now the worthy possessor of a state certificate which permits her to teach in any of the public schools of this state for life, without further examination. (Miss Haring was graduated from this school seven years ago, from the training class the following year and has been securing valuable experience since that time. That she has a good knowledge of history and ability to teach it. is very evident and in the English course she is indeed one of the

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THE ORACLE WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL FACULTY 1904 - 1905 Samuel S. Johnson, - Principal John A. Beers, B. A.,.................................Vice Principal Frances MacDowell, B. S., - Preceptress Julia M. Hawes, ------- Teachers’ Class Jane M. Harinc,......................................English Teacher GRADE TEACHERS Katherine Brown,................... Mary N. Fitzgerald,................. Jennie Mosher,..................... Katherine Whippey,.................. Helen M. Johnson,.................. Daisy C. Vanderlip,................. Elizabeth A. Maloney, .... TRIBUTE TO THE FACULTY Emerson has said, “Every man is an unique” and while perhaps we all have traits in common, yet, it is a fact that there is a combination of qualities in each person which constitute! his essential uni jueness. Emerson has also said, “A man’s talents are his call!.” Comparatively few people are called to teach if we accept this Emersonian view. How important then that those who do possess the talent should devote their lives to the profession. Watkins High School has been fortunate for many years in having a teacher as its principal. It is not the intention of the writer to enter an analysis of Principal S. S. Johnson’s character or talents but the high standing the school enjoys when compa ed with schools of its kind in this state, speaks more highly of his work than any statement which we can phrase. Firmness of purpose, keenness of perception and thoroughness in working out detail, combined together with a sense of humor constitute some of the characteristics of the man. The conscientious pupil under his instruction ever finds in his undemonstrative approval an uplifting and helpful inspiration. Pretense and biuff are always below par with him but originality and honest work meet his instant sympathy and guidance. Our Vice Principal, Professor John Beers fills a very important position and is quite essential to the welfare of the school. His genial manner and kindly disposition have made him a warm place in the hearts, not only of those within the school but those in the community with whom he comes in contact. Seventh Grade Sixth Grade Fifth Grade - Fourth Grade Third Grade Second Grade First Grade

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THE ORACLE best instructors in the state. She so thoroughly enjoys English work and makes it so interesting for others that the most unappreciative pupil can not fail to enjoy his work.) Her quick sympathy and her keen appreciation of the difficulties of student life are large factors in her success. She is the trusted friend, as well as the honored teacher, and seems peculiarly efficient in appealing to the higher motives of her puoils thus aiding them in the formation of right characters-far more imnortant than educated minds. When school days are past,, many will look back with joy at the time spent under her careful instruction and guidance and may there be opportunity in this school for many more to secure a foundation for such memories. Miss Julia M. Hawes is the efficient instructor of the teacher’s training Class in connection with Watkins High School. This is the fifth year she has filled this position and the school is certainly very fortunate in securing her services. To be a teacher is one of the high-st callings in the world but to have the ability to direct the minds of voung people aspiring to become teachers, so to aid and instruct them that they not onlv learn the best and most modern methods of instruction but come gradually into possession of the teacher’s insight and power—this is indeed, a great work and calls forabilityof a high order. Miss Hawes has this ability. She has a direct, mathematical, incisive mind. Her methods bear testimonv to these qualities and result in quick ness of perception and clearness of understanding on the part of her pupils. She has charge a’so of the work in the high school, in higher mathematics and French. In common with all people who are logical and thorough in their reasoning, Miss Hawes is a lover of truth and a hater of shams. She has an enthusiasm in her work characteristic of the intensity of her nature and a knowledge of the importance of thorough training for teachers. May she be retained long in her efficient work in this community. 1001 Sent. 0. First quarter begins. Sept. f . Teachers’ Training Class organizes, first term. Oct. 17-21. Teachers Institute. No school. Nov. 8. General Election. No School. Nov. 11. First quarter ends. Nov. 14. Second quarter begins. Nov. 21. Thanksgiving. Holiday. No School. Nov. 2 ). No School. Dec. 2 ). Holiday vacation begins. B. H. ‘05 CALENDAR 1904-1905.