M Mamiya
My daughter, Kayla had been looking forward to in Mr. Guzman’s gardening club BEFORE he knew her as his own student.
She would share after school dreams of one day joining the gardening club because of Mr. Guzman. I imagine his wonderful energy around the children is what she longed to be part of.
The moment that she found out Mr. Guzman was her homeroom teacher for third grade, I have NEVER seen her more excited to start school. Mr. Guzman for Homeroom AND Gardening?! AWESOME!
We met him at the meet and greet, and I gotta tell you… I can see why he is so loved. His stories, humor.. but most of all to me, his understanding that each child learns in their own, different ways.
Not too long after, Mr. Guzman had extended a spot for her to join Gardening Club! The dream had come true! Thank you Mr. Guzman!
When we heard the news of his passing, our hearts broke for our daughter and Mr. Guzman. She cried and we cried with her… gardening time with Mr. Guzman she waited so long for…
But he left a wonderful impression with our school and children that we remember him as family and are thankful for the happy moments he brought to us.
There is a tree planted in his memory right outside their classroom that made me cry the first time I saw it. It was perfect. Although he was gone, and sorely missed at during those days.. his tree is his presence. Standing strong, yet peaceful.. but always there watching over his class. Just what we all needed to ease the pain of his passing too soon.
Thank you Mr. Guzman. You are very missed and we look forward to greeting you at your tree, always.
Mamiya Ohana
