By CONNIE NOLEN / Community Columnist

Courtney Hickman Farley, previously Mademoiselle Hickman, the Pelham High School French teacher, has a new name.

Her July wedding makes her Madame Farley in French class and Mrs. Farley in her two Junior English classes this school year.

Arriving in 2011, Farley began building on the French program that PHS has had almost since its opening in the 70s.

Under Farley’s direction, the program grew. Students told stories of acting out the French verbs. French songs erupted in class, French Honor Society began, and this year, students have an opportunity to study French Culture during their skinny period.

Knowing what an exceptional French teacher Farley is, having her join our English department was exciting. Since we both teach juniors, Farley and I plan together. Last year, as we prepared to teach argumentation, Farley hesitated.

“My students need to find their passions before they can write arguments,” she said. “What if I teach protest poetry first, they write their own protest poems, and then write argumentation after writing their poems and doing research?”

Farley’s plan was brilliant. After in-class poetry readings, Farley let me read her poem—a powerful piece about her sister.

“You’re an amazing poet,” I marveled.

“The kids poems are amazing,” she said. “In any language, words have power to create change.”

Farley demands much from her French students also. Observing their teacher’s work ethic inspires them.

“I’m in French II. This year, French II and French III are during the same class period,” said Junior Wesley Hataway. “It’s not an ideal situation, but Mrs. Farley keeps both classes going and manages perfectly. I’m really learning.”

Visiting Mrs. Farley’s class and taking photos during Wilder’s “Our Town” wedding, we laugh at the playwright’s comic relief. Farley’s laughter is contagious. Students are smiling, reading and interpreting.

“The way that Mrs. Farley narrates the play makes it speak to your soul,” Brian Morgan said.

“Words are powerful,” Farley said. “Each day, I have the privilege of teaching their power in both English and French.”

The joy of teaching—and learning—continues at PHS.