I was sad to read of the passing of Anthony D. Lanzi, who taught for the Rome School District for 40 years at Dewitt Clinton and Staley Upper Elementary Schools.

Only superlatives come to mind when I think of him — as he was the most creative, enthusiastic, artistic, dedicated teacher.

As an educator of sixth grade students, he nurtured the fundamental skill of building confidence in themselves, helping to instill in his students the confidence that would help them succeed in their future choices in school, work and life.

How did he do this? How was he able to get those shy students up on stage to perform in plays?

His method and materials of instruction brought the world into the classroom; and he took the class into the world and reached all the senses.

For example, the classroom was converted into an Italian restaurant. Students could smell and taste the food, see the Italian décor with the checkered tablecloths, and hear Italian music. The concept was to live the experience.

In addition, the class was taken into the world on many field trips, including day trips to New York City full of stops to see a Broadway play, the Museum of Art,
and Time Square or, closer to home, trips to the Stanley Performing Arts Center in Utica.

His students had the experience of a lifetime in this class as Mr. Lanzi was most generous with his time, talent and skills with the highest level of professionalism.

He also did all this with a lot of class — with his calm, organized, friendly and pleasant nature.

His personal tragedies did not stop his dedication.

He was a credit to the teaching profession and an example to everyone on how to give of themselves to their work and
community and even to live their life.

Now those schools where Mr. Lanzi taught do not exist to place a plaque in a hall or classroom in his honor. Seems like some memory of him would be deserving for his contributions to our students, the Rome City School District and the community.

However, if you had the opportunity to witness what this man accomplished be thankful for the experience. He was a real class act.

— Joan Serino Bibbs, Rome