CHEERS: To fine schools

A decade or so ago, as our boys were entering the big new world of public school, we looked ahead at an uncertain future filled with the challenges of homework, peers, sports, teachers, levies, first days, first cars, first dates, etc. And since we believe that you get out of education what you put into it, we stood ready — total newbies, completely inexperienced (and hoping our kids are good at math).

Both of our boys attended Winton Elementary, Lakes Middle School and Lake City High School — so we would like to send a special thanks to the administrators, teachers and staff of those three schools. Our oldest son graduated from Lake City two years ago and attends Montana State, and this Saturday our youngest will graduate from Lake City and attend Seattle Pacific this fall. Obviously we are proud parents, and they are both hardworking kids, but none of this would’ve been possible without the dedication of their teachers.

And we would like to thank the school board for their dedication as well. While there have been a few misguided agendas over the years (kudos to the LRPC for saving Winton and Sorenson), we recognize the board members have a tough job that takes a lot of time and we are mindful to not let the squabbles and public nitpicking overshadow the real story and why they are there.

Thanks again for everyone’s time and dedication — it did not go unnoticed.

JOHN and ERIN SWALLOW

Coeur d’Alene