After six years of teaching, Mr. Brennan recently announced he would be taking his talents to Washington D.C. I—like many others—am sad to see Mr. Brennan leave the Friend’s community. I have had Mr. Brennan in multiple classes and worked closely with him to run the Civil Discourse Club. I would like to take this opportunity to recount some of my experiences with Mr. Brennan and his influence on my learning. 

I had Mr. Brennan in ninth grade for “Foundations of History” and in tenth grade for “Global Interactions.” Although many find the material covered in these classes dull, I certainly did not. Mr. Brennan was a large part of the reason why I was meaningfully engaged. His teaching style immerses students in the content. Not all of his lessons are lectures, you see, but rather a combination of presentation, video, and handout work. In addition, Mr. Brennan is able to teach with a sense of humor. He fosters a non-stressful environment primed for learning. My love for history really began to present itself in his classes. 

In my freshman year, I joined the Civil Discourse Club. Mr. Brennan was and is the faculty advisor for this group. In recent times, political debate has become very contentious. Thus, the notion that high school students will be able to have a respectable dialogue is an ambitious goal. Nonetheless, Mr. Brennan was able to foster a club environment that has led to genuine dialogue. I have been part of Civil Discourse every year in high school–serving as both a participant and a leader. I have seen the club’s membership, leadership, and general political viewpoint change multiple times. The only constant element has been Mr. Brennan. His guidance has been invaluable. 

Outside of classes and club meetings Mr. Brennan remains deeply committed to his students. He has overseen multiple Civil Discourse symposia that have taken place on the weekends. He is always willing to offer students extra help and guidance. In addition, he even commonly allows students to study in his room while he is working. 

Mr. Brennan has been a life changing teacher for me and many other students. His class instruction and commitment to his students is irreplaceable. He will surely be missed by the Friends’ community.

Thank you, Mr. Brennan.