The American Legion Family recognizes that many people play an integral role in providing a safe, healthy and nurturing school environment, and are responsible for providing opportunities our students need to succeed in academics and life.

In that spirit we proudly continue our participation in observance of American Education Week.

While teachers instruct and assess student achievement, there are many who prepare them to learn — driving buses, taking temperatures, serving meals, providing discipline and emotional support, managing and maintaining buildings, making home visits and counseling students. The dedication and experience expended on a daily basis by these individuals truly cannot be measured.

Area businesses provide opportunities for students to hone their skills in the work force, broadening their practical skills and intellectual abilities. Volunteers offer programs and presentations. Still others support the many activities, fundraisers, and other events through their attendance, time and monetary donations.

And then there are those who work with students who are homeless, hungry, abused, addicted to drugs, or pregnant — who, without intervention and support, would drop out of school.

An African proverb says that it takes an entire village to raise a child. Each of us can help support that village by encouraging, and thanking, everyone as they work together to ensure a quality education for all students.

So on behalf of the members of Mundt-Allen Post and Unit No. 81, American Legion and Auxiliary, thank you.

Jeri Brooks Greenwell, Bethel