English I

WELCOME TO FRESHMEN ENGLISH

My name is Jason Lightbody. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from The University of Maine at Farmington, and my high school diploma from Madison Memorial High School. I am married to a wonderful woman, Laurie, and we have three amazing children: Aaron, who is a junior at U.M.O., Kyle, who graduated from S.A.H.S. last year, and William (Billy), who is entering kindergarten this year.

Along with spending time with my family, biking is my major passion. I enjoy mountain biking, but 90% of my riding is on the road; during the summer months it is not uncommon for me to ride two or three hundred miles a week! Another passion is playing bass guitar. I enjoy listening and playing all genres of music, from Classical to Punk, but two of my favorite styles are Funk and Reggae. I am also (and I hate to admit it) a television addict, but I try and limit my viewing time to one or two shows a night. Three of my must see TV shows are "Eureka," "Two And A Half Men," and "NCIS."

My hope for this year’s English I class is to instill a passion for the written and spoken word and to show how powerful the ability to express thoughts through articulate writing and speaking can be. To critically think and express ideas through writing and speaking, an understanding of grammar, composition, and rhetoric is imperative. Building on the educational foundation that you have gained so far, we will work to expand your ability to communicate more effectively and efficiently. I am sure you are up to the challenge and are willing to bring an open mind and a willingness to learn to class every day. I am looking forward to getting to know all of you and wish you a successful year in everything you do.

Sincerely,
Mr. Lightbody