[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 85 (Thursday, May 22, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1024]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            BILL CASTOR: BROUGHT THE WORLD TO HIS CLASSROOM

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. STEVE BUYER

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 21, 2008

  Mr. BUYER. Madam Speaker, as Americans we begin our careers with 
lofty goals; the sky is the limit because in America it is ``okay'' to 
dream big. And when we retire, and as we look back over our lives can 
we say that we made a difference and left the world a better place? I 
can assure you Bill Castor can say that without hesitation.
  After 39 years of teaching in public education, Bill Castor has been 
an inspiration to his profession, the community, and most importantly, 
his students.
  Bill graduated from Lapel High School in May 1964, and in 1969 he 
graduated from Ball State University where he received a Bachelors of 
Science degree in Social Studies, Sociology, American History, and 
Psychology. In 1973, he received his Masters degree in Social Studies 
Education from Purdue University.
  As a young teacher in the 1970s at West Central High School, Bill 
taught my wife--then Joni Geyer. Joni always speaks fondly at the 
mention of his name.
  Throughout his teaching career, Bill has taught both high school and 
middle school. His teaching assignments have included psychology, 
sociology, geography, government, and American history.
  In his teaching career, Bill brought the world into his classroom. He 
knew how to bring history to life. Stepping into Bill's classroom was 
like stepping into the past as he incorporated his love for antiques in 
his lessons. Whether looking at an 1840s cabinet or a showcase of his 
antiques, history was not just read from a book in his classroom, but 
tangible items that students could see and touch.
  Bill's sense of humor makes it easy to understand how he made such an 
impact on his students. Whether lecturing, involving students in a 
class project or discussion, or telling stories about the people and 
events in our country's history, his sense of humor was deeply woven 
throughout the classes that he taught, keeping participation and 
interest high for his students.
  Bill's love for the liberties which make this Nation great are 
reflected in his efforts to honor the sacrifices made by our men and 
women in uniform. In that regard Bill organized Veteran's Day 
celebrations to make sure his students did not forget the people who 
spend their lives protecting our freedom. I have enjoyed participating 
in several of these activities honoring America over the years 
including the annual 8th grade trip to Washington, D.C. Bill would do 
along with his fellow teacher, Jody Healy.
  The staff and students Roosevelt Middle School will miss Bill Castor. 
The teaching profession will miss him. He has left behind a fine 
legacy. His pleasant and positive outlook on life has been a refreshing 
and motivating influence on the students and faculty of Roosevelt 
Middle School.
  Teachers often say that the biggest reward that they get from their 
profession is when they ``connect'' with students. Bill Castor 
connected with his students on a daily basis. He set the bar high as he 
brought the world to his classroom and challenged his students every 
day. In short, he made a difference in so many students' lives.
  Mr. Castor, you should be proud of your contributions to your 
students, your fellow teachers and your community. Thank you for being 
a part of the Roosevelt Middle School faculty.

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