Usually the last day of school is cause for celebration. And in our house, we are excited about the summer, vacation time, and all that goes along with it (brief as it is). But it was such a special, memorable school year that it's sad to say good-bye to it as well.

Our son is days away from finishing kindergarten. What made the year so tremendous was his teacher. She is an amazing combination of kindness, compassion, understanding, plus she can discipline when necessary yet never seem upset or frazzled (I volunteered weekly in her classroom, so I know). This has set such a strong, positive foundation for our son and we couldn't be more grateful.

Coming across someone so positive and with such a good impact, especially upon a child, is a blessing. Teachers touch children's lives so powerfully; exceptional teachers are a true gift.

I have seen progress and maturity in our son over the past school year, and I'm excited about the learning he will continue in first grade. But we will always have sweet memories of his first academic year.