DEAR TEACHER…

4th grade was a looooong time ago but even all these years later I remember all the things you did to help us learn. It was in your class that I truly fell in love with learning new things and sparked a general sense of curiosity that has served me well my entire life. You exposed us to so much and really opened my eyes to how big the world really is and how much it has to offer. Thank you!

Fifth grade was a hard year for me personally, and you never let me feel like I was falling behind. You offered help quietly, without embarrassment, and made learning feel genuinely fun. Just last week while watching Jeopardy I used your song ("da Gama, da gotta, all the way") to think through the answer.

You saw me as a person, not just a grade on a test. You are one of the reasons I became a teacher. I carry a piece of you every time I interact with teachers and students.

Thank you for all that you did, and continue to do for me without knowing it!

You helped me survive my first semester teaching and taught me so much! I was always in awe of your creativity, the hours you would spend crafting fun things for your class, and the connection you had with your students. Every one of them lit up when they were in your room. I'll never forget your wisdom, support, and kindness! Thank you, Saithip!

I admire how much you care for your students and I see all the often invisible administrative work you do to keep your school and teaching staff afloat. Thank you for caring so deeply for our kids and teachers!

Ms. Wu (Esther still feels weird),

Certain classes, teachers, and experiences stay with you for a long time. Your AP Lit class helped me go from a student that was focused on getting good grades to using literature to think critically about the world around me.

I remember the impact that reading Song of Solomon had on me -- what heritage and family can mean to a young man. You encouraged me to be a graduation speaker with Viet and that was such a powerful way to complete my high school journey.

Catching up several years ago and sharing Brisk was such a great opportunity to hear about the impact you're having on the many students after me that have passed through your classroom doors.

Thank you for everything

I’ve been thinking about you and wanted to take a moment to say thank you, not just as a friend, but as someone who’s seen how much you give to your students.

You show up for them in a way that goes beyond what’s expected. It’s not just about getting through lessons or checking boxes. You care about who they are, how they’re doing, and what they need to feel supported and confident. That kind of presence is rare, and it makes a bigger difference than you probably hear.

I’ve always admired how intentional you are, how you balance high expectations with real empathy, and how your students feel that. They’re lucky to have someone who sees them fully and pushes them to grow at the same time.

It’s also been really special for me to watch you do this work, knowing you as both a coworker and a friend. The way you show up in the classroom is the same way you show up for the people in your life, and that consistency says everything.

Thank you for everything you do for your students. It matters, and it’s seen.

I’m really grateful to know you.

With appreciation,