Sunday, March 27, 2016
Mr. Reyda was my teacher in both Grade 7 and Grade 8 (a joint class) as well as my principal in grade 5 at St. John's grade school in Regina. I have lectured in economics at UofT for the past 28 years and patterned my lecture style from the beginning on his wonderful style of presenting notes on the board in clear comprehensive bullets. He was the most effective practioner of this style that I ever had, including at high school and university, anticipating for me by many years the modern bullet style of programs like PowerPoint. I loved the style in learning and in teaching.
The class also loved to hear him read and lead us in elocution with corks in our mouths. I picked up a passion for speaking clearly and rhythmically from him. I further remember his attention to his clothes - always in a suit and dapper - and habit (first time I'd seen this) of lifting his pants at the knees when sitting down, presumably to protect against bagging.
He was firm, fair, and inspirational; seeming to take a genuine delight in our antics and our athletics endeavors on the school yard.
Finally I must confess that on one crazy day when students were putting tacks on seats of other students, I put a tack on his seat. Don't ask me why since I was horrified by my act when he entered the room. He sat down, jumped right up and left the room (the principal's office door was behind his desk). He came back in a few seconds but he never mentioned a thing and continued with the class. To say that I was grateful and thoroughly chastened would underestimate my feeling of salvation.
I can't imagine a better teacher or principal and feel blessed to have had his guidance in those years to deepen an appreciation of the classroom. Rest in peace
Kieran Furlong, Toronto
