(Editor's note: This is a copy of a letter sent to Robin Lamoureux, principal of Parkside Elementary in Des Moines.)

Hello Ms. Lamoureux!

I had the pleasure of attending Hero's Day last week as a guest of my darling neighbor, Clara McMichael. I wanted to thank you for the wonderful time I had interacting with Clara, her friends, and your staff. While at your school, I was able to observe Clara's class and I was extremely impressed with the teaching (and personal) skills of Ms. Christie Brown.

Ms. Brown has a marvelous way of interacting with students and I was impressed with the way she makes them think. Playing the logic "game," having them negotiate with each other on which book to read, and how many pages to read that evening teaches them valuable skills for the workplace.

I spent the last 15 years of my career managing professional staff who didn't always demonstrate the same level of logic, critical thinking and negotiation skills that I saw in Ms. Brown's students!

After spending time in Ms. Brown's class, I came away with a new found appreciation of teachers and school district employees in general. I live in the Highline School District and you've always been able to count on me to vote "yes" on school levies, but you and Ms. Brown have created a stanch supporter of Highline Schools.

I have already let my neighbors know of my wonderful experience at Parkside and you can count on me to help get out the votes out during school levy time.

Ms. Lamoureux, I realize that as the principal of Parkside Elementary you set the tone for your school. You've done a great job if Ms. Brown is representative of your other teachers and staff. Your job is very difficult and I appreciate what you are doing.

I am sending a copy of this message to Highline School District Superintendent Welch so that he is aware of my positive comments. I'm also sending this to the editor of the Highline Times/Des Moines News in case they would like to print my message, and of course a copy is being sent to Ms. Brown. Each of you should please feel free to share my comments with anyone else that you wish.

Thanks again for a great experience at Hero's Day, you all deserve raises!

MaryEllen Laird

Des Moines