As the school year comes to a close, this is a great time to reflect about those people that have made a positive impact on your child throughout the school year.   As a former teacher, I can tell you that those notes of thanks are some of the most treasured gifts I ever received.  All year long, teachers, administrators, support staff, nurses, bus drivers and other school personnel are working very hard to provide an education to children often under difficult circumstances.  It is those small tokens of appreciation that keep them motivated to continue their important work.

This school year, my daughter graduates from her elementary school.  I know it takes the help of many people to keep her safe and included each day.  It hasn’t all been perfect, but I’m not looking for perfect.  I’m looking for people to put in an effort, to care and to work with my family to create a positive learning experience for my daughter. I found that at my daughter’s school.  It is a wonderful environment from the office staff to the school nurse, to the paraprofessionals and teachers to the PTA and the principal.  Everyone has been  there for my daughter.  So I will attempt to fully express my appreciation by writing a letter and copying the Superintendent.

Tip: If someone has gone above and beyond, don’t just thank them.  Write a note and “cc” their superior so they can be rewarded for a job well done.

As an aside, when you say thank you, there are other benefits besides expressing your gratitude. It allows you to reward the school for a job well done and it fosters a positive relationship with your child’s school. Thank yous are even more important if you have had challenges with the school in the past. When you are able to acknowledge what the school is doing well, it lays the groundwork for a better dialogue when you do have a concern.

Who would you like to thank?