A Difference, They Make A Difference

A DIFFERENCE, THEY MAKE A DIFFERENCE

There’s a Charlie Brown cartoon depicting Peppermint Patty and Charlie Brown sitting under a tree. Peppermint Patty poses a question, “I wonder what teachers make?” Charlie Brown replies, “A difference, Peppermint Patty, they make a difference!” So true of teachers everywhere including special people right here in Milton. Many, many teachers make a difference, but some stand out as positive outliers, rising to a special stratosphere as they imprint their influence indelibly on their students’ lives.

One such influencer has lived in Milton for more than 50 years. His teaching career at Milton High School spanned 38 years. Technically, he’s now retired, but he continues to mentor, to instruct, to hold a high bar of craftsmanship & excellence, to attract students to his classes - now through Blackhawk Technical College - semester after semester. I personally know 3 women who, on registration day for BTC, rise at the crack of dawn, drive to the BTC Campus and vie for position in the registration line to ensure their places in his class. Those who don’t secure a place are sorely disappointed.

So, what creates this magnetism? Investment in his students and his community. Early in his career he was involved in coaching as well as teaching. He serves the broader community as a member of the City of Milton's Zoning Board of Appeals.

Listen to these sentiments provided by his students.

“He is a true master of all aspects of woodworking.”

“This man is so willing to impart what he knows so that others can improve their skills and gain a sense of accomplishment that comes with creating something with your own hands.”

“He is passionate about producing pieces that demonstrate a skill level that exceeds that of a mere crafter.”

“This man is a “wood whisperer”.

“I have done woodworking with this man for more than 30 years. If it wasn’t for his direction and mentoring, I’d still be making bird houses out of popsicle sticks.” 

He has his own workshop where he generously offers his time, expertise, encouragement, and observations to many of his devoted students. He loves to fish and shares his catch with his students at his annual fish fry potluck. He provides the fish and the opportunity for his students to showcase their woodworking craftsmanship. This is truly community building at its best. You can’t buy it. You can’t bring in a consultant to guide it. You just feel it and bask in the warmth and good feeling of caring & concern.

My hat is off to this man – this master craftsman, this teacher, this mentor, this friend. Jim Polarski, you perfectly embody the words of author Mitch Albom, “A Teacher's Shadow Can Hover For Life” We applaud you, we admire you, we so appreciate you, and we love you. Not only have you taught so many of us woodworking, you have also taught us how to live and how to make a positive impact. Our lives are so much richer and Milton is a better place because of your influence.

#cruzan4milton#WAM