By Harry Alaish
An Elegant Entrance for Mr. Edwards
The Gilman News is very pleased to introduce the school’s newest English teacher, Mr. Owen Edwards, who will explore American Literature as he teaches the juniors about classic works such as The Great Gatsby, If Beale Street Could Talk, and Death of A Salesman. He will replace Ms. Carper as a long-term substitute while she is on maternity leave.
Growing up, Mr. Edwards was very familiar with teaching because his mother taught at public schools in Southern Maryland, where he grew up. He always kept the profession in mind, reflecting, “I saw the work [my mom] was doing, which was always interesting and involved: learning about students and interacting with them.” Mr. Edwards attended Towson University, where he majored in both English writing and philosophy, as well as helping students in the school’s writing center.
After Towson, Mr. Edwards began to teach at Archbishop Curley High School in the English department. However, after two years, he decided to transfer to Gilman. Mr. Edwards explains that this is because of his impression of the English department at Gilman, saying, “The teachers are passionate about their work. They care about their students. They're excited to teach, and they’re excited to read and write...I've noticed that everyone is invested in the school's culture, both the students and the instructors. They believe in the mission there. So I felt I was impressed by that passion, and I felt that I could fall into that as well.”
Along with teaching English 11, Mr. Edwards plans to make a statement at Gilman’s writing center, continuing his passion from college of helping students write. He’s also excited to support our athletic and performing arts programs by attending as many Gilman events as possible. Mr. Edwards also plays guitar and sings, so stay tuned for a possible concert at one of our upcoming assemblies. Be sure to give Mr. Edwards a warm welcome when you see him!