TEACHER: Cheers to one of the best

To Idaho Teacher of the Year Erin Lenz: Thank you for being who you are. It brings up solid pride in those of us who continue to have faith in our public school system. Enjoy the honor you will receive and deserve when you get to meet our president along with Mrs. Biden. Know that this honor reflects on all of us and most especially on those fine professionals with whom you work. The real lucky ones are the youngsters you work with on a daily basis.

To me the most heroic folks in this country are the ones who show up at the local schools every day to do a sometimes thankless job. I thank my incredible teachers, like you, who had the patience and dedication to give me the treasure, confidence and joy of learning — and, of course, success in this life. Thank you Erin!

WILLIAM ZALES

Coeur d’Alene