Giving love daily to Poplar Bluff students

To the Editor:

A while back I watched the movie Greater, an inspirational story based on the real life Arkansas Razorback, Brandon Burlsworth. In one scene, the coach asked his players, "Have I told you that I love you lately?' As I thought about that question, I began to reflect on our own community's coaches, teachers and educators.

I was fortunate enough to serve 9 years on the Poplar Bluff School Board. And even more fortunate to spend time on the sidelines with many of the dedicated PB Mules coaches and athletic director. I have seen first-hand how much these men and women care about each and every player, cheerleader and student. I have watched as they poured knowledge and wisdom about the sport they are playing and life in general into the students. These coaches give up so much of their time to make sure each student feels valued. These coaches rejoice alongside the students during the victories on and off the field, and grieve with them during the losses. I have watched the band directors encourage and inspire band students as they practice formations and musical pieces until they get it perfect for delivery. I have been in classrooms throughout the district where teachers are planning and delivering engaging lessons that meet the needs of every students. I have watched as teachers learn how to teach in new and different ways. I have seen teachers help other teachers who are struggling in specific areas. I have seen collaboration inside and outside the classroom to make our school district better for the kids. I have personally watched my grandchildren and loved ones grow academically because of the dedication of teachers, coaches and administrators.

So when I think of the question asked by this coach, in this movie, "Have I told you that I love you lately," I can honestly say that our students know that they are loved. They know that these coaches, teachers, administrators, counselors, and paraprofessionals love them. They know this because it is demonstrated every school day through their actions. It is demonstrated by their extra planning on their own time. It is demonstrated when they show up at the extracurricular activity to support their students, even when there is still work to be done in the classroom and at home. This love is demonstrated by them using their own money to purchase items for their classroom and students. This love is shown by each teacher showing up each school day to give their best, reflecting on the success and failures, monitoring and adjusting as needed and doing it all again the next day.

Gary K. Simmons

Poplar Bluff, Mo.