Thanks from Bower School teachers

To Mark Kohlmann, Bower PTA, Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200 and the Warrenville Community,

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. As the teachers from the three classrooms affected by the flooding of Bower School, we want to tell you how much we appreciate all the support given during the week of closure and the following week of classes. It was truly wonderful.

As we first heard of the devastation of our beautiful building and, more specifically, our classrooms, we grieved the loss of the structure, our classrooms, and our personal possessions. We faced how we would function and carry on with instruction of our students. We began to plan and prepare for the safety of our children and delivery of our instruction. Soon we became overwhelmed by the support and kindness of everyone.

The outpouring of support began with Principal Mark Kohlmann saying, "Make a list of what you need and we will get it for you." The PTA visited our meetings, also asked for lists of needs, and secured the school supplies the children and we would need. Administrators and school board members demonstrated their support through visits and supplying what was necessary to get us up and running. Books and supplies appeared, and we were ready for instruction on Monday morning. Calls and emails came from all over the district and community asking what we needed, how they could help, and what could they do.

The feelings of frustration, helplessness, and sadness were very soon replaced by feelings of extreme gratitude and overwhelming support. When we realized the care used to pack the items saved in the classrooms and the wonderful job of restoration which will take place, we were appreciative. We realized that as terrible as the flood was, the care, support, and love demonstrated far outweighed any loss.

Fifth grade teachers at Bower School

Melissa Berry, Meghann Ferguson, Jan Skewes

Warrenville