HONORING MR. REED

Mr. Paul Reed has a special place in the heart of our family.  He was Robert’s favorite AG teacher at Haines City High School.  In 1994, Robert didn’t have a driver’s license, in fact he didn’t have a truck to drive to school, and so being the Florida Cowman that he is; he rode his horse to and from school.  In reality he didn’t really ride to school.  He rode his horse to Mr. Reed’s house, stored him in the pen there, then Robert and his saddle caught a ride to the high school every day with Mr. Reed. 

Mr. Reed was more than a teacher to Robert; he became a lifelong mentor and friend.  We didn’t always stop to visit him at the school, but when we could we would swing in and say hi.  Fast forward nearly 10 years after Robert graduated.  Mr. Reed, being the man that he was, offered to help our son, John Robert, learn everything about raising poultry to prepare him for his trip to youth fair.  Not only did he give his time he also gave Robert his first prize winning hen and rooster.  He ingrained himself as an integral part of our children’s lives that day in the HCHS Ag department, sharing his wisdom and love with our next generation.  Every year at youth fair our kiddos can’t wait to go and see Mr. Reed.  Sadly, this was our last year to visit him there.

Youth Fair 2013, John's winning rooster.

The prize winning hen.

Last night Robert and I had the privilege of attending the 58^th annual Haines City High School FFA Awards Banquet.  It was a special night for us because after 34 years of teaching, Mr. Reed has announced he is retiring.  It was an honor to sit across from his family last night.  It was sheer joy talking about our kiddos with him, watching his eyes light up with pride about their latest AG related exploits.  More than that, it was an honor to be with him as he remembered his 34 years of teaching, and told us stories that he remembered about us when we were in school.   

Mr. Reed laughing at something Robert shared with him about our lives.

Robert and Mr. Reed, 21 years after high school.  Still good friends!

It is with joy that we tell Mr. Reed congratulations on his retirement.  More than that, it is with pure love that we look on the impact that he has had on our lives as teenagers and later the lives of our children as they learn and grow to love the AG lifestyle.  I wish we could have our children experience the joys that the Haines City High School AG department was in the mid to late 90’s under the direction of Jack Halibrin and Paul Reed.  More than that, we wish him nothing but success as he embarks on his latest adventure, retirement and being Papa! 

Thank you for all that you have done for us Mr. Reed.  We love you so much more than the education that you gave us.  We love you for being an amazing teacher, mentor, and having you as our friend.