(December 17, 2004) — On Dec. 1, 2004, the familiar crackle of the P.A. system made its presence known, and everyone looked up, expecting to hear the usual announcement that bus 103 had just arrived. To everyone’s surprise, however, the voice emitted from the little speaker was that of Principal Doug Dall. Immediately, a feeling of foreboding crept its way into everyone’s mind, for most people would agree that it’s usually not a good sign when the principal takes over the P.A. system. And so it all began: “We are saddened to share with you the news that Dennis Henderson, physics teacher at Clark Magnet High School, passed away last night in his sleep. Our condolences go out to Mr. Henderson’s family in this most difficult of times.” Instantly, the fist of shock banged its way through every body, mind, and soul, sparking the regurgitation of phrases like, “Oh my God!” and “You’ve got to be kidding me!” What followed was a wave of rhetorical questions directed at no one in particular, attempting to find an explanation for what had happened. Almost two weeks later, the buzz of confusion has fizzled and has transformed into a universal thought of disbelief in the back of everyone’s mind: Dennis Henderson is gone. Those closest to him are still having a hard time speaking openly about the issue, and students are trying to figure out what exactly physics class will be like now that Henderson won’t be teaching anymore. Henderson passed away in his sleep Nov. 30, at the age of 57. In an e-mail form Superintendent Michael Escalante, it was stated that he is survived by his wife Kathy, son Bart, and daughter Laurie. Almost a year ago, he abruptly stopped coming to work and was replaced by several substitutes. At the time, the only information given to students regarding their teacher’s condition was that he was sick. Naturally, this sparked a constant flow of questions and concerns left unanswered by the substitutes who seemed to not know very much about what was going on either. Henderson returned during the last days of the school year and was greeted by the eager smiles and enthusiastic “Welcome back!”s of both students and staff. Henderson began his teaching career as a science teacher at Hoover High School in 1989, and transferred to Clark in 1999, where he taught physics. He was an avid golfer and great supporter of the Glendale Unified School District’s high school golf program. He was loved and respected by his students and colleagues, and was known for his sense of humor and willingness to establish a strong connection between himself and his students. “He made us feel really comfortable about such a hard subject. He always made us laugh and it made physics a lot easier than it seemed,” said sophomore Harout Keuroghlian, who had Henderson as a freshman. Henderson’s reputation as a kind and intelligent person was universal not only with his students, but also with his fellow teachers. “As a human and as a father, he was a good man,” said math analysis teacher Ray Good. “He had character.” “I just know that he was a person that was a giver and would do anything to help his kids out. He was willing to go down to their level and tell them how it really is,” said teacher Randy Tiffany, who said he often golfed with Henderson on the weekend. Whether he knew someone for a few months or a few years, he always made sure his unique personality showed through and gave the other person a reason to remember him. “We liked him because he felt more like a friend than a teacher,” said freshman Flora Kyzykyan. “He taught us in different ways, and not only about physics, but also about life. He always put a smile on our faces with his charm and enthusiasm. We were willing to learn because of all that.” According to an announcement made by Dall on Dec. 3, Henderson and his family’s wishes were that there be no “memorial services” or public funeral. His remains were cared for by the Neptune Society, with a planned scattering at sea. Deliberations over what will be done at Clark in order to preserve his memory have been going on for over a week now, and although no definite decision has been reached, a certainty is that a scholarship fund will be established in his honor. It has been asked that all contributions be directed to Clark Magnet High School with the notation, Henderson Scholarship Fund.