The school year is rapidly coming to a close June 5and I am preparing to send my sixth-grade class at Springdale Elementary School to junior high.

        Saying goodbye to students is often difficult for teachers. This goodbye is especially poignant for me, because most of these kids have been in my class since the third grade. Even the “newer” students have been with me since fifth grade. So as they continue on through the world of education, I would like to reminisce a moment with them.

        A Letter to My Class,

        Do you remember the first time you walked in my door? I do!

        Many of you were wide-eyed, apprehensive and not sure as to what the year would bring. Little did we know that we would begin a four-year journey together. We did not know what to expect from each other, but I quickly discovered what a great bunch of kids you are.

        After Sept. 11, you were the first class in the school to write letters of support to the firefighters and police of New York and Washington.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Maggie Leutzinger, 48, a teacher at Springdale Elementary School in the Princeton School district, lives in West Chester Township with husband Skip and daughters Sara, 22, and Laura, 19.

        The holiday gift boxes you packed for needy children touched lives in our own community. When I needed brain surgery, it was your prayers, cards and visits that led me to a speedy recovery so that I could return to class. Within our school community, you have been bus buddies, read to younger children and shared your talents with students who have needed help.

        Along the road, we've had some memorable moments. What troopers you were as together we toiled, prepared for and survived not one, but TWO state proficiency tests. We had some great field trips — Tall Stacks, the Aquarium, the Cincinnati Zoo, the Museum Center and the Aronoff Center. The three days that we spent at Camp Campbell Gard were a great learning event.

        Who could forget our simulation of a journey on the Underground Railroad as we crept through the woods in the rain and fog? Seeing your faces that night, lit only by one small lantern is a memory that I will hold forever. (Trying to convince you to fall asleep at a reasonable hour is one that I would like to forget!)

        Everywhere we went, people would stop and comment on what a great class you were. You were always a source of pride to me as we ventured into the community.

        Developing relationships with your families has been so rewarding. Your parents have always been very supportive, and I will miss them as well. They were always willing to pitch in and help whenever our class needed something for a project and it was much appreciated.

        In many ways, we've all become like a family and it will be hard to say farewell as you leave elementary school. Each one of you has touched me in some way, and I cherish the gift that you've given me. I can recognize your voices and your giggles without ever looking up from my desk. Your smiles have made me laugh, and I know that on the night of your sixth-grade dinner (Tuesday) I will cry.

        I've been blessed to see how much progress you've made over the years. You've blossomed academically, socially and I've seen you mature into confident learners.

        I am certain you are ready for the new challenges that you will encounter. So, as you embark on your trek to junior high, be secure in who you are and what you can accomplish. One of our class traditions has been to listen to the same book on the last day of the year. And so to quote Dr. Seuss . . . Oh, the places you will go!

        I will miss you all dearly.

        Love,
       Mrs. L
        Share recent moments in your life. Fax 768-8330; e-mail: mfuqua@enquirer.com. Columns submitted to the Enquirer may be published or distributed in print, electronic or other forms.

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