“I went through the medicine cabinet this week in my son’s bathroom. Right next to his toothbrush was a note Ms. Wood wrote to him at the end of last school year. She gave him some encouragement, and just told him what a great kid he was and that she enjoyed having him in class. How nice, right?

If he kept that note, I can tell you it meant a lot to him. He has it right there where he can see it every day. He has a physical reminder that someone cares about him, and wants him to succeed.

She will never know what an impact her care and concern has had on her student’s lives. They have been through some tough times , and will continue to battle demons in their lives. But they are here, and they are still fighting, because of people like her that were there at critical times to give them a smile, words of encouragement, and understanding when they can’t do something so simple as come to a concert.

Ms. Wood is an amazing band teacher. She has the knowledge and skill to bring out the musical ability in her students. I have had the privelege of attending day long festivals with her band, and she is kind and respectful at all times, even when they ask for the 10th time, “Do you know where I put my instrument?” This ability, combined with her loving heart and compassion for these kids, makes her an outstanding teacher. This saying comes to mind: ‘Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.’
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for taking care of our children and reaching them in a way that we cannot.”

-Melanie Olney