"Mrs. Mak" To Be Remembered Fondly

Walking through the halls of East Greenwich High School this past week, there has been a sadness in the air. On the day of Carrie Maksymowicz’s passing, there were two moments of silence as the students and staff members reflected upon the memories they had of Mrs. Mak, who worked in the guidance department.

Any senior could tell about the always-smiling face in the guidance office as Mrs. Mak would offer assistance to anyone who walked in. She never seemed to have a bad day — even as she faced her medical troubles — and she could put any student into the best mood, with her welcoming, friendly attitude. 

Representatives of the junior class went around the school last week with note cards having all students write to the family of Mrs. Mak. The messages on these cards varied from a few sentences to a paragraph as students were given a chance to reflect upon their memories of Mrs. Mak. 

She was a woman of many skills and one whom never complained about the discomforts she dealt with. When approached by confused upper classmen trying to get through the college application process, she was supportive and always willing to lend a hand. 

One such memory is my own, in which I had gone to the guidance office trying to schedule an appointment with my guidance counselor. I had been nervous and unaware of how to schedule such an appointment. Mrs. Mak noticed my nervous attitude and helped me make the appointment and she talked to me with calm compassion. It was a life lesson: that a friendly attitude that could really help put others at ease.

She was kind to all who had been lucky enough to have met her. Whether at the Little Red Hen, where she taught for several years before moving over to the East Greenwich School Department, she was loved by all.

As a member of the East Greenwich High School community, Mrs. Mak was a great addition and will be missed by all. Her courage, friendliness, and positive outlook were greater lessons than those we students learn in most classrooms. The community of East Greenwich High School wishes her family peace. We will remember her as the outgoing person she was.