A tribute to the teachers of St. Joseph School in Florida

To the editor: As parents of children who attend St. Joseph School in Florida, it is with heavy hearts that we send this tribute. St. Joseph’s will close in a few short weeks after more than 90 years in the village of Florida and the wonderful teachers who impacted the lives of our children in such positive ways will close their classroom doors for the last time. The least we can do during this time of great loss is to express why we fought so hard to keep St. Joseph’s open n it was because of the teachers. The following tribute is an attempt to express our gratitude. How can we ever thank you? Words cannot convey the debt of gratitude we have for all you have done for our children. From academic preparation to spiritual and moral guidance, you have given them an irreplaceable foundation. You have embraced them and loved them like they were your own. How can we ever thank you? You have regarded each one as a special gift from God, and you have nurtured them. You have seen the potential in each one, and you have diligently encouraged them. How can we ever thank you? You have challenged them in an environment of love, and they have risen to meet you. As St. Augustine said, it is love that is the foundation of true learning. Our children have responded to you because you have cared, listened, and believed. How can we ever thank you? You will always be in their hearts as they go on through life. And we know when they think of St. Joseph School they will remember ... how you made them feel ... and they will be reminded of their greatest gift - God’s Infinite Love The Van Aulens, the Dixons, the Regenauers, the Dellattos, the Maguires, the Wards, the Rauchs, the Harrisons, the Kistys, the Bernsleys, the Misciagnas, the Conklins, the Drumgooles, the Porcos and all the many other St. Joe’s families who share this sentiment