Latin School of Chicago

up close LORI KLOEHN Position and years at Latin: Eighth grade English, nine years Why are you in education? I started out pre-law with a political science major, and when I wanted to switch to English, my father, always the practical one, said I had to get my teaching degree if I was going to have such a frivolous major. The first time I taught a class, something clicked, and I was utterly hooked. Also, do you know that girl in the back of the classroom who is never quiet? That was me. Now I get to talk all I want in the front of the classroom. What are your hobbies and interests? Reading, running, cooking, canoeing, opera, and two professional franchises that demand a great deal from their fans: the Chicago Cubs and the Green Bay Packers. What are your favorite things about the middle school? Sometimes I think I never grew up and am actually a 14-year-old trapped inside this adult body. I love how middle school students approach learning. Learning changes the way we see the world. Middle schoolers understand that. What is the best part of your job? I get to come here and talk about literature and writing every day. The worst? That's easy. The hours of grading are the worst. I take papers to baseball games. I take papers to bed. I take papers on every car ride. What profession, other than teaching, would you also see yourself doing? I love to write, and I can imagine building a career around words. I would miss my students so much, though. What qualities do you admire most in others? Integrity, honesty, forthrightness with a sprinkling of charm and wit. Who is the greatest influence on your life? I have been lucky to be married to my true love for over 20 years. He influences me every single day. What are your guiding principles? Try to think before you speak (I sometimes manage this). Try to see the other side. Pre-write before you write. What is your favorite quote? "This above all: to thine own self be true." Shakespeare knew a thing or two about human nature.

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