Editor:

I was one of the couple hundred people who attended the recent Brentwood school board meeting. I could see a lot of angry and defeated faces in the crowd. As a parent, I can’t do much for the staff of the Brentwood district other than tell you all that you are appreciated.

My two children attend Brentwood Elementary and I have only praise for the teachers my children have encountered. Teresa Rodriguez is a first-grade teacher and she is fantastic. She not only dedicates herself in her classroom, but she is a regular fixture at off-site and after-hours functions. She is always one of the first to volunteer to help out the Parents Club.

She also takes on extra duties, like keeping groups of kids after school, on her own time, to help with reading. She doesn’t do this for extra pay but because the kids need the help. She is wonderful and I feel so lucky that both of my kids have journeyed through first grade with her.

Kate Ghilarducci is a tremendous fourth-grade teacher. She has created a safe and structured environment that allows her students to shine while keeping parents in the loop. She has been able to challenge students while allowing them to have fun through learning. My daughter has flourished academically in her class and loves to go to school. I pray that she will be around to handle my younger daughter as she reaches the fourth grade.

My kids have had other excellent teachers in the past as well. Mrs. Boden is hands-down the best kindergarten teacher on earth. Mrs. Macedo, Mrs. Peltz and Mrs. Redman have also poured their time, energy and knowledge into my kids. I can’t find the words to express my gratitude for their hard work. But I will try. I just hope the Brentwood district administration will try a little harder to do the same.

Heather Partida, Brentwood