The English Department and English teacher Judith Sutton received commendations last Wednesday, Nov. 5, at the Saratoga City Council for their work with the award-winning poetry program at the high school.

The program was recognized for the positive impact it has made on the community. Under Sutton’s guidance, poetry at Saratoga has long been sponsored and supported by the English Department.

Creative writing funding was cut in 1978, but the English department and Sutton eventually helped to bring it back 10 years ago at the requests of parents and students. The program has grown to include a unique, three tiered curriculum and receives wide appreciation.

Mayor Ann Waltonsmith had heard about high school poetry around the community for some time and approached Sutton to find out more.

Sutton said that she was so impressed with how perceptive the mayor was. Waltonsmith took time out of her busy schedule to attend one of the field trips with the poetry class and introduce herself. She also made a point of learning as much as possible about the curriculum and history the poetry program and Sutton herself as a poet.

“It’s an important quality in a leader—to investigate aspects of importance in the community and to stay in touch,” said Sutton.

Sutton said that she deeply appreciated the mayor and City Council for making the commendation.

“It’s nice to have recognition towards the end of your career—as well as the in the beginning and middle stages—as I have been fortunate to have,” said Sutton. “To still be recognized for excellence in my work with the written world really means a great deal to me.”