San Rafael, California 94901
May 23, 2012
To whom it may concern:
I am writing to you on behalf of Craig Butz. Throughout my high school years I have had the privilege to work closely with Craig. He taught my sophomore Research in the Community class, was my faculty advisor for two years, and was my Senior Signature Projects advisor. As my high school career now comes to a close, I am looking back at my time at Bay--through all the ups and downs, all the triumphs and losses. Craig has not only taught me to pursue my interests or how to manage large multi-step projects, but also important life skills by emanating those very characteristics on a day-to-day basis. Craig is a perpetually joyful teacher who cares deeply for his students and community.
As an athletic kid prone to injuries, a member of our school's student council and International Aid Club, I have always been active and busy around campus. As an advisor, Craig has pushed me to ask more of my teachers, to strive for the straight A's that he knows I am capable of, and to be mindful in an ever-changing world. His trust in my success, his openness to ruthlessly discuss important issues, and his availability as a mentor continue to foster a supporting and loving atmosphere in all of his endeavors.
As a Research in the Community teacher, Craig challenged me to pursue the topic of the ethics of Army recruitment methods. I remember the first day of the course, walking in to class and seeing the entire course syllabus laid out day by day; it was impressive to say the least. Craig always kept on top of us to turn in our assignments on time and managed to get assignments--no matter how large or small--back quickly with thoughtful feedback. He even helped me schedule an undercover interview with an army recruiter to understand all points of view for my topic, enriching my final paper and presentation.
As my Senior Project advisor, Craig helped me navigate through school bureaucracy, facilitated brainstorming the best way to reach my goals, and kept in touch every step of the process. To start, my project was by no means an easy task: raising inter-grade relationships and fostering school spirit. However, from day one Craig told me to just take the project one step at a time and he made sure to let me know that he was always available. I must have made at least two dozen last minute emails, pre-event calls, and cleanup duties to Craig, which he always answered and helped with the best he could--whether it be spending a couple extra minutes after school talking with me, driving me to an event spot, or documenting the events, he was invaluable to say the least.
Overall, I owe much of my success at The Bay School to Craig--his ability to empower others, to cause others to think critically about themselves and the larger world, and his ability to put a smile on anyone's face are invaluable teaching and life skills. I enthusiastically recommend Craig Butz to your institution. I am confident that Craig will continue to be an excellent teacher in and out of the classroom and will be a true asset to any of his future endeavors.
Sincerely,
Cole B. Steves (Class of 2012)