Gonzalo Garza Independence High School

October 14, 2013 Dear Sir or Madam: I write this letter excitedly on Larisa Corders behalf. She is an excellent student who exhibits a desire to learn, compassion for her peers, and a sense of responsibility that exceeds her years. I had the pleasure of teaching Larisa in Gonzalo Garza Independence High Schools multi-disciplinary Womens Studies course, which incorporates United States History, English Language Arts, and Theater Arts during the Spring Semester of 2013. In this class, Larisa again and again proved herself a young woman of intelligence, dedication, and pluck. In the course I observed her work individually and in groups, write analytical and persuasive essays, personal narratives, poetry, performances and monologues, as well as engage in research and public speaking. Larisa is a wonderful team-mate who can lead a group while remaining sensitive to the needs of others. She approaches her peers with compassion while maintaining a get-down-tobusiness focus. In addition to this course, Larisa took Creative Writing in the summer and fall of 2013, and continued to exhibit excellence, as well as a whimsical sense of humor and delightful, poetic ability to express herself through writing. Her completion of these courses with excellence and quality work is to be commended; however, what really stands out about Larisas journey was her commitment to learning, insight, and willingness to test new waters. It is through observing her clarify her thinking process, evaluate information and opinions, discuss womens rights, practice on stage, and collaborate with peers that I came to know, respect, and marvel at her varied gifts and talents. In addition to her academic skills, Larisa exhibits professionalism more akin to a college student than an adolescent in high school. She is poised, polite, determined and open-minded. She arrived for class ready to learn and always looked for the connections between school work and "the real world." Despite personal concerns which presented additional challenges to her school work, Larisa stayed up-to-date with assignments, and performed as a responsible classmate and student. Indeed, at the time of writing this letter, Larisa has worked above and beyond in order to graduate early, and will successfully complete her high school experience over seven months early. She demonstrates mature communication skills and the ability to balance several parttime jobs, volunteer work, participate in Garzas Academic Society, along with both school and her personal interests. Through all of this, she has shown that she is ready for the world beyond the classroom. I cannot name everything that stands out about this young lady and what shes accomplished in this short letter. However, I have no doubt that those who work with her in her academic and professional pursuits will have the opportunity to observe them for themselves. It is with pleasure that I wholeheartedly recommend Larisa Corder for any academic or professional opportunities. Sincerely yours, Julia Champine English Language Arts Facilitator

Gonzalo Garza Independence High School

(512) 414-8671