Thank you Olympia School District

I have two children in Olympia schools and I would like to express my profound gratitude to the educators, counselors, and administrators who have provided such wonderful learning and social opportunities to them. I am particularly grateful to Avanti High School for providing alternate educational opportunities to high school students who, for a variety of reasons, may not thrive in a traditional high school. The teachers there who patiently and consistently encourage students to achieve their educational goals are really remarkable. I am so happy that the Olympia School District continues to provide this sort of alternative education environment.

I'd also like to express my gratitude to Olympia High School principal Matt Grant, who is a true leader who stepped up to deal with difficult issues of predjudice and privelege that have plagued Olympia High School for decades. I know that addressing such difficult issues can make people uncomfortable, but I believe that the conversation must occur, and I know that students who "don't get it" now, will be better citizens for having had to grapple with these issues.

Thank you to all of the teachers that I know who care so much about the children you serve. You are truly a gift to this community.

This story was originally published July 4, 2016 at 7:38 AM with the headline "Thank you Olympia School District."