TEACHERS ENCOURAGED DIVERSITY

My children have attended Gull Lake Community Schools their entire
lives. I am proud of the level of education and quality of teachers we
have in our district from pre-kindergarten through high school. I find
it extremely sad we have lost two of the finest teachers at Gull Lake,
Brett and Keri Johnson.

My oldest daughter graduated in 2004 and is a senior at American
University in Washington, DC. Upon hearing a rumor from my younger
daughter, who is a sophomore, that I relayed to my eldest daughter,
she said she didn't think it could possibly be true.

She credits Mr. Johnson as being the best English educator she has
ever had and one who instilled a passion for writing that she carries
to this day. Her career plans are to write or make documentaries for
social change.

Another reason she respects him and his wife is their willingness to
help all students. Their passion for teaching was evident and the time
they spent helping students outside of official class time should be
commended.

In an era when diversity should be tolerated, respected and accepted,
there were many, especially in 2003-2004, who did not tolerate,
respect or accept. Both Mr. and Mrs. Johnson were helpful in bringing
a Gay-Straight Alliance to Gull Lake which a previous administration
did not condone.

I am proud to say, because of student involvement and special teachers
like the Johnsons, the GSA continues. The Johnsons volunteered their
time, as advisers, to let ALL students know they were respected. The
climate of Gull Lake Community Schools has changed in a positive
direction under the current administration.

I hope other students in Michigan are able to benefit from the quality
education the Johnsons provide.

Katie Lyden Hitow is a resident of Richland.