LETTER: Parent thanks South Valley staff
I am a proud parent of two children at South Valley Elementary School. I must thank the school for providing my children a safe and fun environment to learn in. There are a couple of particulars that I would like to acknowledge.
First: Safety — I have always felt that my children were safe in our school. I am a regular volunteer at the school and I appreciate that I am always asked why I am coming to the school. I also know that the faculty at South Valley would do everything in their power to protect my children.
Second: The teachers. All of the teachers at South Valley are wonderful. Dr. Karanjia has done an amazing job of collecting a very dedicated and caring group of people to teach at our school. I have had the extreme pleasure of having a fantastic second grade teacher, Mrs. Kelly, and a wonderful pre-school teacher, Mrs. Daskilewicz. As all the teachers do, these two have been great at helping all of their children in class. My two sons have enjoyed being at school every day and I know that it is due to these great teachers.
Third: The para-professionals. I honestly had thought that these fabulous people were just other teachers in the school. I have come to learn that there are a group of teachers at South Valley that work with special needs children, help in classes, and in general help throughout the school. Although my children have not had the opportunity to work with them directly, I have witnessed their efforts in the school. They know each and every child’s name in school. They are out and about looking out for the well being of every child. They are a constant presence that adds to my feeling of security at the school. This is in addition to what I have seen with the pupils that are directly in their care. I have seen the progress made through the year and I can tell you it is amazing. They are a true asset.
I have heard rumors that the school board might consider moving to a contract with an outside company for these positions. I certainly hope not. Having people brought in from outside that are not vetted by the administration at the school and that will create a revolving door of “paras” through our school will detract from the wonderful environment that exists now. I would not feel the same level of safety with a strange face in the hallways that might change every month. I also do not feel that an outside contractor would pitch in and do the extras that our current group of para-professionals do. They will not be out at the crossings in the morning to ensure that our children get to the school safely, they will not monitor the halls and call out children by name when they see them running, they will not help out in the media center and other areas throughout the school. We cannot let our current group of para-professionals be replaced by cheap hired help.
As I have said, I am a very proud South Valley parent. The school has become very important to my children and me. My two boys love school and I know it is due to the people at South Valley.
Harry Faunce
