Paul O’Donnell

“Mr. O’Donnell literally saved my life. I met him in my freshman year of high school. I had failed English, and he was my summer school English teacher. I was at the lowest point in my life when I entered his classroom on that early June day, and was contemplating taking my life. I had the plan and was ready to act.

Mr. O’Donnell had a quiet way of letting you know you were seen and valued, something I wasn’t used to after 3 years with a bully for a teacher. Mr. O’Donnell immediately sensed I was quiet and didn’t want public attention, so his praise came with notes on my work and quiet 1-1 conversations.

I ended up having Mr. O’Donnell for classes the remaining 3 years of high school and know for a fact if our paths hadn’t crossed, I would not be here to share this story. I am because he was. May he RIP for all the lives he touched with his unique and impactful teaching.”

- Karen Osarenkhoe