LEVY: Perspective leads to support

After 19 years working as a librarian in the Coeur d'Alene School District, I am preparing to retire in June. From an open, centrally located library, my unique perspective has allowed me to observe the amazing things that go on during every school day.

I have watched teachers toil hours before and after school to prepare lessons which will address every learning style, yet remain both challenging and interesting. I have known counselors who speak with children about ordinary "kid" problems, as well as help them deal with tragic family situations beyond their control. I have observed cooks, secretaries, custodians and bus drivers address hundreds of students by name, complimenting them on a new haircut or a recent basketball game or concert. I have seen kind, patient paraprofessionals work tirelessly with students who have special needs. I have watched principals lead troubled students back onto the right path and lead teachers toward their best, natural teaching style. I have witnessed all levels of school district employees effectively team up to provide the best possible educational environment for our students.

A great school is like an extended family - for staff, students, parents and neighborhoods. It becomes a natural setting to learn, laugh and occasionally cry together. Of course, as in all families, there can be obstacles along the way. But even when our educators are going through serious personal illness or loss, even as budgets are more and more limited, even when difficult issues occasionally bring about healthy debates, without fail the employees in this district return to the same question, "What is best for our students?" And because of this professional dedication, I have smiled over and over again as former students return to our schools to say thank you to the people who have made a difference in their lives.

Retirement will be bittersweet. It has been an honor to work with the outstanding staff and students of the Coeur d'Alene School District. If you have spent any time at all in our schools, you'll understand why. However, we are currently facing a community crisis. Our school district cannot continue to operate effectively with less and less money. Although everyone has had to tighten belts these days, our school budget has been cut so many times there are no more notches on the belt! We are at the breaking point, and it's the young people in our area who will suffer. Please don't let them down. Our community needs to come out in full force to support the Maintenance and Operations Supplemental Levy on March 8.

KAREN ESTES

Coeur d'Alene