This fall, Locust School opened without a vital and much-loved staff member, Developmental Skills Teacher Nancy Latham, who lost her battle with cancer in the summer. Mrs. Latham worked in Garden City Schools for 15 years, bringing knowledge, talent and passion to her classroom. She loved her job; she loved working at Locust School; she loved the children; and she was an inspiration to her colleagues.

Nancy was a motivator-a teacher who could break down a concept into the simplest steps so that children could understand and learn. She taught children the basics of reading. She helped the students who needed a little extra to get them going. She saw the best in every student. And each student honestly was her favorite. We can still hear her saying with conviction at the end of each school year how much she would miss each and every one of them.

But even more important, Nancy gave a gift to each child. It was the gift of self-esteem. This gift was her "secret" to teaching. She would build each child's confidence, motivate each child to believe in him/herself, and inspire each child to work very hard. Even the most timid and hesitant children blossomed under her guidance.

Nancy truly made a difference in children's lives, and her calling as a teacher was very important to her. This is reflected in a folder full of letters from parents and students that we found while preparing her classroom for a successor.

"Thanks for helping me become a better reader," wrote one student. "Dear Mrs. Latham, You have been very kind to me. Love, C_____," wrote another.

Parents also expressed appreciation. "Thank you so much for working with A____ this year. Even though it was only for a short while, you really helped him with the skills and confidence he needed...," wrote one parent. "You worked magic with L____'s reading ability. I wish I had your professional talent. Thank you so much for your encouragement," wrote another.

Another parent shared the following story: As you know, kids often bring in gifts for their teachers at the end of school or a holiday. More often than not it is the parent who makes the effort and the child could care less. Not in this case. B____ has asked me every day for two weeks to take him to the bookstore to get you a gift. He was beaming when he found one that looked good for you. You must have made quite an impression on him as he is sure to miss you. Thank you for extending your love of reading and extreme patience with B____. You made a difference in his life.

We know these notes meant the world to Nancy. She did make a difference in the lives of many children, and she was a role model for the entire staff at Locust school. We at Locust School feel fortunate that our lives and the lives of our students were touched by Nancy. We'll remember her always.

The Faculty and Staff at Locust School