English III

WELCOME TO JUNIOR ENGLISH

Welcome back. My name is Mr. 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 III 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. In 1776 Thomas Paine wrote “Common Sense,” a pamphlet arguing for Independence from England. He also published a collection of essays, “The Crisis,” that supported an independent and self-governing country. Because of Paine’s publications people rallied, revolted, and created a new country; that is powerful. Along with learning to write well, we will explore how literature has contributed to and changed the Idea of America. 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