Open Letter to Green Lake Staff:
Thank you for the care and guidance you provided for Megan and Matt during their developmental years in the Green Lake
schools. We appreciate that every person on staff, including the teachers, coaches, administrators, support staff, and bus
drivers, had a positive influence on Megan’s and Matt’s skill development and personal growth. We are fortunate to have
been able to raise our children in a nurturing community where youth are encouraged and education is valued.
When we asked for a list of people who have influenced her life, Megan immediately started to list Green Lake school staff
members. As the list grew, I inquired if she intended to list everyone on staff. In her typical practical manner, she responded
that “well, I don’t want to leave anyone out.” Therefore, to ensure we haven’t left anyone out, the entire Green Lake School
staff is invited to join us on June 4 to celebrate Megan’s graduation. In essence, this is also a celebration to honor the
teachers, coaches, and others who have contributed the growth of Megan and her classmates since Kindergarten.
Although Megan missed her classmates and personalized attention during her senior year at a different school, she
successfully made the transition to a larger school (graduating class = 400 students) and community. She maintained her high
grades, established friendships with several charming and responsible classmates, and participated in three varsity sports.
Next year she will attend the University of Minnesota to study early childhood education and special education. Ultimately,
she wants to provide therapy services for young children with special needs and their families.
Like his sister, Matt has expressed his appreciation for the many opportunities he had in Green Lake to explore a broad range
of activities. Both Megan and Matt have discovered that students from larger school districts typically must be selective in
their class and activity options, and students must take on more responsibility to advocate for themselves. Matt and Megan
value that the Green Lake staff encouraged students to explore a variety of activities and class options even if that required
modifications or special accommodations. They feel prepared to adapt into new situations.
Wayne and I are grateful to you all for the influence you have had on our children. Thank you for encouraging and
challenging Megan and Matt. We are proud of the caring, interesting individuals they are, and we look forward to watching
them blossom as they move into adulthood. Matt expects to graduate next year from Luther College with majors in
Psychology and Management. He continues to love life and has enjoyed his time at Luther where he plays football, performs
in choirs, and carries out Resident Assistant duties.
Best wishes as you wrap up the school year. May you have a restful and peaceful summer break.
During those occasional moments when you have doubts, please find a way to remind yourself of the many ways you have
positively impacted the hundreds of remarkable young people who have passed through the Green Lake schools. You have
much to be proud of.
Susan Sharkey
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