dona's 365

Undoubtedly the best educator I’ve ever known, Mr. DeLuca did more than teach. He used every possible opportunity as a teachable moment He was kind, firm and fun and seemed comfortable around parents and children alike. Most of all he liked the kids. Both kids were lucky to have him.

No-nonsense and absolutely not touchy-feely, Ms Mitchnik, was the first teacher that was not influenced by Andrew ’s charms. She had high expectations for her fifth graders. Andrew was not happy, but rose to the occasion by working hard his final year in elementary school. Well done, Ms M.

Fourth-grade teacher and cheerful fellow, Mr. Delpierre was the opposite of Ms Scher when it came to relating with adults. His unusual sense of humor sometimes scared students, but Clare found him warm and kind. After he married a student’s au pair they were featured on a House Hunters episode.

Inconsistent, sarcastic and volatile, Ms Stein — nicknamed Frankenstein by her students — needed to have a career far from young children. Unfortunately for many, including Clare , she chose to teach second grade. Among the few adults she allowed into her classroom, I attempted to model kindness to the woman.

My memory of Ms Stottman, Andrew ’s 3rd grade teacher is rather sketchy at best — I went back to work that year. I know Andrew loved her and she loved Andrew. That was also the last year I remember Andrew enjoying school — after that school became an unpleasant chore for him.

Mrs. Scher taught Clare in 3rd grade and Andrew had her for 2nd grade. Neither one disliked her, in fact Clare quite liked her. Mrs. Shear did not seem to have good grown-up people skills, however. Most parents with whom I’ve discussed Mrs. Scher this felt she didn’t like them.

Petite and elegant, Mrs. Beecher taught both my children their first year of elementary school. Soft-spoken yet confident, she made each kindergarten student and their parent feel special. When we’ve run into her at various school gatherings, she remembers each child to whom she speaks and remarks on their accomplishments.

Clare ’s Girl Scout troop leader, Nike (pronounced “Nicky”) likes to be in control. Her disorganized yet dictatorial leadership has caused most of the troop to abandon the organization. Still, she’s remained with the troop for these 11 years, and that’s no small feat. And the girls are far from angels.