It has been a privilege to volunteer for the kindergarten class at Augusta’s Gilbert School for the past 13 years. I have seen so many changes.

The children have heavy hearts because they have to leave their parent’s home to start a new chapter in their lives. Some of these little ones start crying. It’s not an easy task for teachers to console them, telling them that it will be OK, and shortly after school, they will be reunited with their parents.

A day with the children includes a very cute exercise called “getting the wiggles out.” At snack time, if a child has no snacks, the teacher will provide snacks they have purchased. Then it’s recess. How many of you have tried helping 20 students get ready to play in the snow? The teacher makes sure they have their mittens, gloves and snowsuits. I don’t think I could do that on a daily basis, but they do.

The teacher has a chart on the blackboard that the children use to move up for excellent behavior or down if they don’t listen. To watch a student going up the steps is a treasure; they’re so happy for what they’ve accomplished. I have never once heard our fabulous kindergarten teachers raise their voices. We are very fortunate to have such teachers in our school, educating these children to be ready for first grade the following year.

How many parents ever think of sending a small thank-you note? Most parents do appreciate the time and effort the teacher puts into educating their lovely little people.

It’s been very satisfying to see how wonderful the teachers at Gilbert School are, and the entire Augusta school system. It helps these pupils become outstanding citizens.

All the teachers and staff in the Augusta school system deserve a big thank-you.

Lorraine Doyon

Augusta