Plenty of dedicated teachers out there

Much has been written lately about school teachers in this paper. It seems many people are under the impression teachers "have it easy" and then coast to a nice retirement.

Well, I have two special education teachers in my family and have seen first-hand the hard work involved and the emotional attachment they make with their students each year.

So, admittedly, I am probably biased but I have to tell you about an event this past weekend to raise money for Special Olympics programs.

This past Saturday night, more than 50 teachers and staff members gave up their weekend night to play in a charity basketball game. It was billed as a "Border War" as teachers from Buffalo Grove High School played the staff from Hersey High School to raise money for Special Olympics. At halftime, the Special Education students played, and played very well. The score of the game isn't important, but more than $4,000 was raised to support the kids.

Now, I am sure you won't see any articles in the paper about this event, and none of the teachers want any credit for what they did, but I do think we all have to sit back and be thankful for the dedication these teachers have shown in their years of service.

The job they do is undervalued in our society. For those of you who feel different, I challenge you to get your teaching certificate and try "walking in their shoes."

Buffalo Grove and Hersey staff members, thank you for the wonderful event Saturday night, and thank you for your dedication to our young people!

Mike McIntyre

Arlington Heights