By Letter to the Editor on December 9, 2017.
My grandson attended Herald School 25 years ago. The teachers then were absolutely fantastic with the students, all so understanding and patient as I remember them. Herald School also had handicapped children. These fascinating teachers always had a smile for all who attended this school. So kind. One teacher I remember distinctly was Ms. Gold. She took her time to phone me at my home during her workday to say how well my grandson was improving. One other teacher I remember was Mrs. Edwards. These teachers truly stuck out in my mind. They had to be great teachers to be remembered from that many years ago. Now today, same Herald School, this is as I see it. Floors, windows, doors, ceiling are in need of replacement to some degree as the number of students attending has grown significantly. There are more handicapped students attending and the classrooms are completely overcrowded. My heart goes out to those remarkable teachers. I see how they are so overworked. Call it shortstaffed. These teachers deserve the utmost attention for their outgoing care for all students. I am there with my great-granddaughter and her daddy every morning. I pick her up every afternoon from class. I have yet to see a frown on any teacher’s face. They are all so kind and compassionate to students and parents. My great-granddaughter is now in Kindergarten. The teachers, when they have time, are at the door with a smile, greeting every child by name — I mean happy smiles! These teachers are shortstaffed. They do not finish work at 2:45 or 4 p.m. Their work goes home with them. My heart is saddened every day I enter Herald for the wee handicapped children. These teachers work with them every day, working desperately to help the children. They are very special teachers. I also see great shortage of office staff. Someone please give the teachers and employees of this great school the recognition they so deserve. Special thank you to Kindergarten teachers Tammy Peterson, Marlaine Plato, Tamara Scheuerman and Leanne Logan. Nancy Hoffman and Joseph Cayenne Medicine Hat 12