WESTSIDE — Now that school is out for summer and graduation ceremonies are over, its a good time to reflect on the past school year and take a moment to appreciate teachers for their service to their students, the community and the future.

I firmly believe that teachers are special people. When I visit my children’s classrooms at the Decatur Northside Elementary School, I am in awe of their teachers. While I can barely manage three children at times, they keep 20 children in order and teach them something constructive at the same time.

It’s impressive to see twenty 4-year-olds busily and quietly working in little groups at the various learning centers around the room. There is no running, no screaming, no fighting, just happy little people having fun, learning and then putting their things away when they are done.

My daughter's first grade teacher also amazes me. Her students come home excited about what they have learned and eager to continue their projects at home. Somehow she manages to make each student feel special while she nurtures their talents.

When I think of the patience it requires to handle a million mini-crises a day, I honestly don’t know how they do it. I think they must be born with magic powers.

“If a doctor, lawyer or dentist had 40 people in his office at one time, all of whom had different needs and some of whom didn't want to be there and were causing trouble, and the doctor, lawyer or dentist,without assistance, had to treat them all with professional excellence for nine months, then he might have some conception of the classroom teacher's job,” said Donald Quinn, in what is now a popular quote.

Teaching children may not be easy, but it is certainly one of the most important jobs out there. While teachers may not get paid as much as doctors, lawyers and CEOs, the fruits of their labors are priceless.

My children, who just completed pre-kindergarten and first grade, have grown to love their teachers; and, by extension, our entire family - grandparents, aunts and uncles - has a special place in our hearts for those teachers.

To the teachers and staff at Decatur Northside Elementary School and to teachers everywhere, we appreciate what you do and are grateful for your impact on our children’s lives as

well as on all the children in

the community.

Community News, Pages 7 on 06/08/2011