Opportunities were like a ‘teacher I.V.’

This time of year it is easy to get overwhelmed with all of the curriculum left to teach and all the negatives swirling around about our profession. I recently returned to the classroom after having to take a leave of absence for surgery and was feeling this panic more than ever before.

Last weekend I was fortunate to be a part of two of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever had while working with Rowan-Salisbury Schools.

First, I was able to attend NCTIES, a technology conference in Raleigh, and second, I attended EdCamp Rowan held a Knox Middle School. Both of these events were amazing professionally, but for me, they were significantly more.

Those three days of professional development recharged my battery as if I had been given a “teacher I.V.” of new ideas, fresh perspective and renewed motivation for a job I love. The Edcamp model tailored professional training to fit each participant. It was differentiation at its finest, and all for me (and 300 of my closest friends).

What we accomplished as a system on Saturday was pivotal in our growth. I want to thank everyone who had a hand in this amazing opportunity that allowed professionals to come together to collaborate on a profession we believe in with every breath.

These opportunities both at home and away are how we stay sharp, motivated and passionate about the most important job on the planet — educating our future.

I have had a fabulous week with my students. It is so much fun to try new things with them and watch them grow and learn.

Most importantly, I feel like I have also grown and learned in the past week. I pray that continues for as long as I live.

— Robin Daye

The writer teaches fourth grade at Hanford Dole Elementary School.

Walser’s impact immeasurable

I would like to congratulate Jason Walser on his incredible tenure at The LandTrust for Central North Carolina (LTCNC). I had the opportunity to work with Jason at LTCNC for six of his 16 years. His impact on conservation and public recreation in Rowan County and the nine other counties served by our organization are immeasurable, including Eagle Point Preserve, Spencer Woods, Dunns Mountain Park, significant enhancements to the Uwharrie National Forest and the Uwharrie Trail, and much more.

What people in Salisbury may not realize is that Jason’s leadership, vision and special personality also impact conservation initiatives at statewide and regional levels.

Jason’s legacy will continue not only at LTCNC, widely regarded as one of the most successful land trusts in the state thanks largely to his talent and leadership, but also in the lives of the people with whom he worked and helped.

I consider it an honor to have worked with Jason and to call him my colleague and friend. And I know there are many others in the conservation field who feel the same.

— Andrew Waters

Spartanburg, S.C

Know this number

We all know 911. Now I ask all to memorize 1-800-232-0144. This number is posted on railroad crossings and should be called in case of an emergency. The recent Amtrak accident may have been avoided if someone had called this number to warn Amtrak that someone was stuck on the tracks.

— Jackie Taylor

Lexington

Save Civic Park

Memo to Salisbury City Council:

A fair use for the old Civic Park Apartments would be to use them for housing the homeless and, in particular, homeless vets. If, indeed, the apartments are sub-par, wouldn’t it be cheaper to rehab them than to tear them down?

— Sanford Silverburg

Salisbury