Alvin R. Schmidt

Just thought of Mr. Schmidt, one of the most influential teachers I ever had. His 8th grade English class at Orange Avenue School was among the best classes I ever was graced to attend. He had a zeal for teaching and inspired us to learn. I remember the tennis ball awards for a job well done. I remember picking winners for the oscars. I remember pneumoconiosis, which was a word hung on the classroom wall. My mom worked 3 jobs and delivered papers to his house. After I graduated from OAS, he...

I was Mr. Schmidt’s pupil in 1961. He was the most inspiring teacher I ever had. Every time I use one of the Words of the Day I am back in eighth grade! He gave me and so many others a vocabulary for life. I am so sorry to hear that he is gone.

Such an amazing teacher that I will never forget! Mr. Schmidt was one of a kind. Personable, sweet and he made learning so much fun. I was just telling my twelve year old about him the other day!

My Deepest Sympathies,
Rebecca Kimball Castellitto

A great and inspiring teacher - Drill for Skill is still deeply embedded. Mr. Schmidt played handball and racketball with my father, Tony Sabalot, at the Westfield YMCA for many years. Sincere condolences to the family and know that Mr. Schmidt is remembered fondly by all who knew and studied under him. Deborah Sabalot Deane

A gem of a teacher and an amazing person. My father, Fritz Brown always spoke highly of Mr. Schmidt and was happy to call him a friend.

Great teacher...the best Cranford had! I was his student in 1958 and I still recall some of his lessons and games. What a special educator.

To the Schmidt Family,
My condolences. I think you know how much I admired and loved Al. He was and will always be a major influence on my life and those of so many other. He was a gentle, caring, humble man, such a role model
Mindy Schwartz Brown