Wall-of-Fame History Teacher Paul Carlson

Paul Carlson has been a teacher at Maine East High School in Park Ridge, Illinois, for a record-setting 50 years. On May 11, 2007, Mr. Carlson will be enshrined on the Maine East Wall-of-Fame. He will take his place alongside other notable Maine East alumni, including Senator Hilary Clinton and Academy Award-nominated actor Harrison Ford.

Mr. Carlson is responsible for my love of history. And, consequently, for kindling my interest in ephemera. Anyone who loves old paper will appreciate the fact that Mr. Carlson, a recognized authority on life of General Douglas MacArthur, helped unpack the General's possessions in Norfolk, and acted as an adviser to the archivist in charge of organizing MacArthur's library and museum.

Mr. Carlson is a tremendous source of inspiration. And he has earned his place on the Wall-of-Fame. During his amazing tenure at Maine East, he has been responsible for many watershed events at the school. For instance, in 1980 (during my Sophomore year), when the school board discussed closing Maine East, he formed the committee that helped save the institution from destruction. It wasn't his first triumph over the board. In 1968, the year he received the coveted Teacher's Medal, he battled with the school board and saved Illinois taxpayers a quarter of a million dollars.

He would be embarrassed if I listed all of his credits and achievements. [And he'd insist that I refer to him as Paul, but sir, it will always be Mr. Carlson.]

The people of Maine Township will always remember--and forever be indebted--to Mr. Carlson's dedication to the students of Maine East. But I'll always remember his kindness, his wonderful sense of humor, and the pride he took in his craft.

Above all else, Mr. Carlson is a great teacher. He deserves our praise and our thanks for a job well done.