By Superintendent Loxi-Jo Calmes

We celebrated two important days this week. Tuesday, May 8, was Teacher Appreciation Day and Wednesday, May 9, was School Nurse Recognition Day. These special days provide us an opportunity to thank the teachers and school nurses who make a positive difference in the lives of our students. They work hard every day to ensure that the students of our community are ready to succeed when they leave our schools for college and careers.  

    The research is clear that good teaching matters, and Lunenburg is fortunate to have effective teachers who are passionate about their work and inspire their students daily to higher levels of performance. Lunenburg is fortunate to have such a dedicated and committed faculty. In conjunction with a supportive community, they open doors to success, promote justice and respect, and change lives.   

    Likewise, our school nurses also make critical contributions to the educational achievement of students. They attend to the immediate health needs of students and assist in identifying students whose health or behavioral needs may impede learning.  Our school nurses have increased our awareness and understanding about the physical, mental and emotional health concerns of children and adolescents.  

    We have more children with special health care needs attending our schools than ever before. Our school nurses develop individualized health care plans for these students, coordinating with their education colleagues to ensure availability of appropriate health services and access to learning.  

 
    I hope you will join me in acknowledging these special professionals and their unique contributions to our nation's children and youth. Teachers matter; instead of criticizing them, let’s give them the support and resources they need to continue to do their job for the children and adolescents of Lunenburg.