Lessons from my High School English Teacher

This article was written by Janey Locander for Love Girls Magazine.

My passion for the arts has been in me for as long as I can remember. From disappearing into the world of my books and own writings to the bright lights of the stage, I was captivated. My experiences were vast and in my young age I was led by teachers and mentors who showed a genuine passion for the activities they ran. This in turn inspired me to find my passions and run with them. I haven’t looked back since, and I’ve seen first-hand how hard the arts struggle to survive.

Moline High School English teacher, Shannon Finneran, is someone who, like me, sees the important impact of the arts and the opportunities that can come from them. In my years of high school she encouraged all of my creative pursuits as well as those of other students. Her mentoring and guidance is one that I hope all students find.

She told me as I sat in her room after school, “Writing is something no one can take from you. It’s one of the most important political and social platforms young women can utilize to ensure their voice is heard. The spoken and written word helps to establish ownership and agency. Alongside music and visual art, writing is one of the best tools we have, and it doesn’t cost a thing. It’s absolutely critical that young women write down their stories. When we write, we leave behind a legacy for future generations.“

“When young women write, they hold a mirror to society,” she explained. “They show the world what it’s like to be a female in a patriarchal system. It’s one of the main reasons why I became a teacher. I want to help young women recognize the power they have, using only a pen and paper — or a keyboard, to inspire permanent, societal change. When we write, no one can interrupt us.”

This is similar to how I feel about writing and making my voice heard. I can have so much taken from me, but never my words and the voice that speaks them. Our voices and actions can make all the difference, and as Ms. Finneran told me, “Long after we are gone, our words withstand the test of time.”