Over the last month I have been laid off, and subsequently rehired on a year-long leave replacement contract with the Bainbridge Island School District.

What happened in between lay off and rehire is something that I would like to thank our community for.

I was among many junior teachers let go due to large budgeting challenges within the district.

Within days of this being made public, the community became fully engaged in an effort to Save Our Teachers! The speed, breadth and success of this campaign is, in my mind, why I have a job today.

Thank you for your dedication and voice in making a troubling “Reduction In Force” situation into one of action and care.

I have never seen, nor heard of a community, that did what was done over the last month on Bainbridge Island.

My friends who drive off the ferry every day called to ask if the campaign was something that had run for several years, or if it was launched in response to the recent news.

They were stunned when I described the signage, communications, support, and generosity of our community. I, and all my fellow teachers, are overwhelmed and thankful for being lucky enough to work in a community like ours.

I will remember that our jobs are due, in a very large part, to your efforts. To that select group of parents that spearheaded this campaign (you know who you are), a special thank you for being the catalyst.

I have taught for two years and have not, for one second, regretted my decision to teach. This year, these kids, and our community have substantiated my belief that there are some things sacred, fulfilling, and fun. Teaching is that to me.

Bainbridge Island

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read.