2001 Essay/Poetry Contest

Megan Hays, Grade 5
Teacher: Mrs. Valerie Frost
Sandpiper Elementary
Paradise Valley USD

Third Place
Intermediate (Grades 3-5)

November 7, 2000
ASU Martin Luther King Jr., Celebration
COE, Office of the Dean, ASU West
Faculty Administration Bldg., 2nd Floor
P. O. Box 37100
Phoenix, Arizona 85089

To Wham It May Concern:

Do you have someone in your life that makes you want to smile every time you see him or her? I do. Her name is Mrs. Urlaub and she was my fourth grade teacher at Sandpiper Elementary. Mrs. Urlaub is the most awesome teacher I have ever had! She has inspired many students throughout her career and I for one, can say, she certainly inspired me!

Mrs. Urlaub is always there for her students. During my fourth grade year, there were many times when I doubted myself. It was during those times that she would be there to talk to me about why I was so sad. She would help think through my problems and find solutions. I'm not the only one she helps this way. I have seen her spend time talking privately with lots of student to help them with their problems as well

One time, I was having problems with my organizational skills. I had lost some homework papers and I was almost in tears. Mrs. Urlaub looked through my notebook and found the missing work. She talked to me about the importance of being organized and then she gave me a big hug.

Mrs. Urlaub also helps with school activities that reach many different grades such as Homework Club. Here she teaches grades four through six.

Mrs. Urlaub was and is an awesome teacher and person in my school. She demonstrates leadership through service by being there for her students.

Sincerely,