Janet H.

Mrs. Janet Hays has been the best teacher my children have ever encountered. When I first met her she gave me a warm hug and instantly made me feel welcome in her classroom. Since I have volunteered in her classroom, I have seen how her easy-going attitude and relaxed style has helped her students feel comfortable. In addition, she also is very clear in her communication and what she expects from her students. She talks to the students like they are adults, and she asks for classroom respect among the students and with her. My son has developmental delays and I have seen more progress in this grade than in any other and I feel like it's a direct result of her teaching. Furthermore, instead of asking for a Christmas gift this year, Mrs. Hays asked for a donation of cat or dog food. She took her class this Christmas on a "walking field trip". The entire class walked to a local no-kill animal shelter and provided to them the donations of food and treats. In this gesture, she is teaching very young students the gift of generosity and also how you can be involved in your community. To end, I'd also like to say that she has given me the final motivation to become a teacher myself. After I complete my graduate coursework I hope and intend to be a teacher just like she is. She is my inspiration.

Signed,
Rachel Johnston