Gonzalo Garza Independence High

School
May 25, 2016
Dear Sir or Madam:
I am delighted to write this letter on River Larsons behalf. River was a student in my
English III class during 2014-2015 school year. While River only took one of my classes, he was
a student at Garza for several years, and I had the pleasure of meeting him as a young and vibrant
(if somewhat awkward) sophomore, and observing him as he grew into the confident and
talented young adult that he is today. During this time, River has grow as a student, a writer, and
an individual whom I admire and recommend highly for academic and employment
opportunities.
The English Language Arts courses at Garza High School are unique in that the material
is project-based, the curriculum is self-paced, and the classes are multi-level. What this means is
that at any one point in time, there are sophomores and seniors sitting next to each-other in the
same class period, working independently, and discussing materials across these levels. Its not
uncommon to have a senior present a multi-genre research project, a junior lead a discussion
analyzing rhetoric in advertising, and a sophomore showcase a project exploring the archetypal
Heros Journey all in one class period. This fosters learning across the grade level and sharing
ideas.
As River moved through his courses, he read essays, memoir, poetry, and short fiction.
He engaged in the writing process, beginning with rough ideas, journals, learning to express his
thoughts, and then studied genre. He improved in both creative writing skills as well as critical
thinking skills and time management in this class. River is an excellent writer who enjoys
learning, and can appreciate the challenges laid before him. During the time he spent in my class,
three project stand out: a short story he wrote exploring objective and subjective style, in which
River experimented with point of view in order to pen a fantastic tale about a character
undergoing a metamorphosis, and an analytical study on the play Angels in America, and a
photo-essay in which he explored images of GLBTQ individuals posing as models in
advertisements, in order to draw attention to the fact that these individuals are often underrepresented in media and advertising.. River brought creativity, individuality, humor and passion
to both of these projects, and the joy that he took in creating them is evident when read and
viewed.
In addition to his academic activities, River was also involved in a series of activities
outside of school, and spent his time with Changing Lives Youth Theater Ensemble, writing,
acting, and performing a play about anti-bullying for middle schools across Central Texas. He

Gonzalo Garza Independence High

School
was also a member of Out Youth, an organization that serves the Central Texas LGBTQ+ youth.
With this organization, he participated in community service activities and opportunities for
social activism. Finally, River worked part-time for Starbucks Coffee beginning in his junior year
of high school, and still maintains a job there today. Through all of these experiences, River
emerged as a responsible young leader who can be counted on to complete mundane tasks (like
cleaning up and washing dishes when that is required) as well as accomplishing great feats (like
performing on stage), and to take pride in the words he speaks, the communities he belongs to,
and the relationships he has built.
As this student moves beyond his high school career into the next phase, I am sure he will
take several things with him: an academic skill-set ready for higher education; a mature attitude
and sense of readiness; and a desire to experience, express, and enjoy the opportunities that lie
before him. He will be a wonderful addition to any classroom, team or group endeavor. I
wholeheartedly recommend River Larson for any academic or employment opportunities.
Sincerely yours,

Julia Champine
English Language Arts Facilitator and Department Chair
(512) 414-8671