Baskin to speak at Perryville graduation

Perryville High School's senior class has chosen a favorite teacher to deliver the 2012 commencement address during graduation ceremonies May 18.

Timothy Baskin, who is a communication arts instructor and yearbook advisor at the high school, will speak.

The 2012 PHS Commencement will begin at 8 pm Friday, May 18 at Perry Park Center. The 176 members of the senior class will be led by valedictorian Ashley Meinhardt and salutatorian Abigail Buchheit.

Teaching is a family affair for Baskin -- his wife Heather is a fourth grade teacher at Perryville Elementary School, and his sister Katherine is a teacher in the English department at PHS. Baskin is the son of Michael and Mary Kay Baskin. Timothy and Heather have two children. Daughter Scout is 3 years old and son Lev is 6 months.

Baskin himself was homeschooled through college.

"I aced the GED and got a full ride to any state school," he said. "It's how I paid for college -- no debt!"

He earned his bachelor of science in psychology from Southeast Missouri State University, then earned teaching certificates in English and social studies/history. He should complete his master's degree in creative writing this fall.

He joined the PHS faculty in 2007 and has taught many of the seniors.

"I had 5 sections of these students in class during their freshman year," he said, "so I know a large majority of them. It's been a pleasure to watch them grow and mature."