By Mossimo Perry For those who did not get to meet Ms. Pies or those who only knew of her like me, this is a small introduction to who Ms. Pies was and what she meant to the East community. Ms. Pies was an exceptional English Language Arts teacher who dedicated herself to her students while battling with brain cancer. Her unwavering determination throughout her cancer treatment while continuing to teach left a forever-lasting impression on not only her students but her colleagues as well. Scholars cherished her infectious smile and laughter, appreciating how she cared for them even during challenging times. Getting to know her students was Ms. Pies’ favorite part of teaching. She saw her scholars as unique individuals and took joy in learning about what shaped them to be who they are today. Guiding and supporting her students, making them smile and laugh, and of course nurturing their reading, writing, and social skills were all natural to her approach as a teacher or even a role model as some may say. I have asked Ms. Gotham, someone who knew Ms. Pies on a personal level as they are siblings, what quote would best encapsulate Ms. Pies. She proceeded to tell me: “You are entirely up to you.” This emphasizes the power of personal choice and resilience in the face of uncertainties. Ms. Pies believed that despite circumstances beyond our control, we still have the ability to decide how we respond. She embodied this philosophy by choosing to persevere, spread kindness, and demonstrate strength. Even when facing hardships, she remained the best version of herself, serving as an inspiration to her students and to all that knew her. A lasting tribute exists at East High School. Our library is now proudly named The Shana Louise Pies Memorial Library. Ms. Pies will be remembered for her unwavering devotion and capacity to inspire achievement in the scholars, colleagues, parents and alumni of East High School. For the bravery, persistence, and strength she exhibited in her fight against cancer that those around her could emulate. Ms. Pies loved that as an educator she could touch the lives of so many of “her kids” in the classroom. Her personal mission was to develop the young minds to read, read, read and write, write, write. Those teaching efforts will be passed on for generations to come.
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