Tribute to a Mathematics Master

Tribute to Mr. Gillis Francis

Mathematics Teacher

Form 3B4, 4 Business/Science and 5

Business/Science

2001 - 2004

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How often do we "place value" on the lives of those who help to mould us, specifically, our teachers? Teachers, whose lessons are often replayed at various points in our lives, increasing in value with every memory.

Mr. Francis was "one" of those teachers who inspired me to excel. After a dismal performance in 2nd form Math, he was able to nurture my love for Mathematics throughout my remaining years at the Girls High School.

For me, wanting to achieve perfect "tens" on any ex, weekend assignment or exam became natural.

I'm sure that "hundreds" or even "thousands" of past students can share the same sentiments. His lessons were simply invaluable.

He taught lessons, not only in Mathematics but lessons for life. I'd share four of the lessons that stood out most as I flicked through the pages of my class work and assignment books from 2001 to 2004.

1. He taught us lessons on time. Yes, there were lessons about the 24hr clock, calculating differences across time zones and other technical stuff, however, what always stood out was his optimal use of instructional time. There wasn't a minute to be wasted during class time. From the time a fellow classmate said "Allyuh, look Francis eh", from start to finish of every class, we were engaged. I particularly appreciated the time he took to walk around the class to give one-on-one support and ensure that each student was getting through with the class work that he outlined for the session.

2. To add, there were many sessions spent on solving quadratic and simultaneous equations. I'm sure that nothing felt better than figuring out the value of x, y, z or any given letter. You see, solving equations is not just a matter of Mathematics, it has often reminded me that I have the capacity to solve challenges and problems that we may face from time to time.

3. Undoubtedly too, there were lessons on consumer arithmetic. Yes, just like many of you, we had to differentiate between compound interest and simple interest, understand hire purchase, calculating cost prices and the list goes on. I remember him highlighting the practical nature of these topics and that all we had to do was to think it through. As he would say from time to time, "put away the book sense and apply the common sense" - with practice, common sense became common indeed. I was in a class of stars.

4. I remember fondly, his lessons on probability but most of all with this memory, I'd remember him smile. We all knew he was very serious about what he did but we often wondered if he ever smiled. Going up to collect my results when they came back from CXC (and admittedly I was a bit nervous); as I approached the landing area I saw Mr. Francis smile and say "Miss Browne, it's no surprise". He never doubted that the probability of me excelling was 1. Today, even when I doubt myself in the most challenging situations, I remember these little votes of confidence.

The lessons have been helpful, long after my graduation at the St. Vincent Girls High School. A solid foundation helped me to excel at College and even helped with my Mathematics and Statistics courses at University. Interestingly, when I taught Mathematics for a few years, I'd often find myself referring to the examples in my class work books from GHS and using the tips and tricks employed by Mr. Francis to make my students' lives a little easier.

His time here has expired and it is clear that he used it well. As we navigate life’s equations and challenges, let us remember to apply proven methods of common sense and encouraging smiles. Thank you Mr. Francis, you have invested in the lives of many girls who came through these portals - you have proven that to teach is to touch lives forever (2 teach + 2 touch lives = 4 ever).

I trust that your eternal reward will be great.

Rest in perfect peace.