Dear Editor:

 

Laredo Independent School District is still the place to be! In case you've lost hope or think the dream of educating our young children in a positive light is fading away, I would invite you to read on about the most wonderful children, teachers, and parents our district has to offer. I'm speaking about my very own C. L. Milton Elementary School where I proudly serve as school principal.

Recently, Mrs. Guadalupe García, parent volunteer, Miss Vanessa Cortez, literacy coach, and Ms. Olga García, Health and Physical Education teacher teamed up to teach our students how to live healthy, active lives and to be productive, giving individuals in our community. It all started with the community actually asking for our support for juvenile diabetes research. These ladies volunteered without hesitation because they, too, understood the importance of instilling the concepts of healthy eating, exercise, and community service in our future leaders. Because of their efforts our school raised over $4,000 for juvenile diabetes research In just nine days!

Through the encouragement of our entire staff of teachers and with the help of numerous community businesses and our caring parents, as well as incredible support from Superintendent Sylvia Bruni, our students were able to experience an overwhelming sense of accomplishment! I would like to thank the following businesses who were generous with donations and giving of their time, because they, too, understood the importance of events such as these:

Foley's, Peter Piper Pizza, The Laredo Bucks (Bucky), Escamilla Ford, KFC, Bath & Body Works, HEB, Chick-Fil-A Mall del Norte, Cariñitos, Laredo Fire Department, Pro 8 News, Guerra Communications, Trade Secret, The House of Rentals, Laredo Webb County Food Bank, Johnny Carino's, Mrs. Patricia A. Barrera, and our fabulous C. L. Milton Elementary School parents, teachers, staff, and STUDENTS!

We called our campaign “Kids Helping Kids,” but our kids did more than just help others; they took a giant step in learning about how they can help themselves through community productivity and by choosing healthy lifestyles. For them, the light continues to shine. C. L. Milton Elementary School is also a very good place to be!

 

Sincere thanks,

Jeni Ratliff

principal,

C. L. Milton Elementary School