by Connie Duczeminski

Now that the first marking period of our 2007-2008 school year is finished, it is extremely important to acknowledge the efforts of the members of the MTA who, in spite of the conditions at the opening of school, are responsible for continuing to offer the premium education that our students receive.

Thank you — to all of the veteran teachers who have the necessary background and experience to teach effectively without many of the necessary supplies. You have helped the students begin their year on the right track. You have exemplified for new teachers the art of teaching at Middletown High School; endurance, perseverance, creativity and dedication to education.

Good luck — to all of the new teachers who have worked so hard to prepare for and welcome our students into your classroom. You have put countless hours into organizing, planning, searching, and team work in order to ensure not only a productive start for our students, but also for your career. We all acknowledge the difficulties during the first year of teaching in a new district. Don’t lose heart or give up. It’s like childbirth, excruciating in the beginning, with magnificent results at the end.

Infinite respect — to the members of the Freshman Academy. You have all gone above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that this new program meets the requirements of the governor’s Excellence grant. You are worth far more than your paychecks. You are worth millions of dollars to our district. You have decorated the white walls with incentives and educational materials that will undoubtedly start our entire freshman class on the road to a productive high school career.

Feathers in the cap — for the members of the guidance department. Harry Houdini could take lessons from you. And to all teaching assistants who also perform magic, thank you for dedicating your efforts to support the entire educational process.

Many things in our building change –  numbers, classrooms, desks, wall paint — but one thing remains unchanged, and that is the members of the MTA who continue to serve our students with consistency, continuity and an exemplary quality of education. congratulations and THANK YOU.

Respectfully submitted to the members of the MTA.