Rensselaer Republican, Volume 13, Number 46, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 4 August 1881 — Normal Notes. [ARTICLE]

Normal Notes.

Since Monday, Celia Fulton, Josie Parkinson, Alice McDonald, Belle Phegley, Emma Gwin, Mr. Glazebrook and Mr. Clark have joined us in our rapid march and are already deep in the mysteries of mental philosophy. Thirty-three of the forty-five enrolled have entered the philosophical class and many and lively are the discussions held. We should all'have the good sense not to to bring the Normal into the realm of partisanship, but to weigh its merits and ascertain its many good qualities and its deficiciencies, if any. The motive for holding the Normal is not pecuniary profit, but that “we teachers” may get a clearer idea of the meaning of onr work, and that we may possess a more thorough knowledge of the nature and principles of our business. With this knowledge the status of our county schools will rank second to that of no other county. Without it we have a class of teachers who consider their work drudgery, their pupils badly invented machines and themselves ill-fated mortals who vyill inevitably suit their work to the narrow and illiberal view of the profession. It is too true that the majority of us build up theories which to us seem consistent, but we find the practice of them is naught but solemn trifling. If you would understand and like your work attend a good Normal where all bad theories and methods are vanquished and the good reinforced. “Better late than never,” so don’t let August Bth find you at home. Bring your fans along. The Refrigerator is Working splendidly, but is not capable of cooling off Ml the heat generated by enthusiasm.

E. E. Davidson, lately frotU Kewanee, Ind., wishes to announce that he is ready to do Ml kinds of Stone-work, plain and ornamental, in the best style. Stone-cutting executed in fine style when desired! the very best of references given if required. Can be found at the Austin House,