Ms. Betty Chase – Arcadia Elementary

Dear Teacher Feature Judges,

We appreciate the teachers of Arcadia Elementary. They have provided an excellent education for our children. One teacher in particular changed the life of our son. Our son Matthew wore thick eyeglasses and, since kids will be kids, his peers mocked him and teased him and made fun of him. Hence, he became severely introverted and emotionally handicapped, and tuned himself out of consciousness. Since he became so “space out,” his classmates made fun of that, too.

Ms. Betty Chase was the turning point of his life. She taught him much more than 3 Rs, and she went far beyond the call of duty. She took a personal interest in Matthew. She showed him that she had confidence in him and she taught him to have confidence in himself. As he went on to higher grades, Matthew opened up and his personality blossomed, but he always gave all the credit to Ms. Chase.

A couple of weeks ago, Matthew got married to a beautiful young woman. Even though it has been years since Ms. Chase had taught him, he wanted to invite her. The reception was held far way from Salt Lake Valley, so far that most of our friends and relatives did not come. But Ms. Chase came alone, late at night, over a great distance to a location that was hard to find. I know the district did not pay her for all the time she spent for Matthew that night. When she arrived, it was a touching reunion. Matthew was visibly impressed. While she was there, Ms. Chase said she wanted to see Matthew’s older sister, LaNae, whom she remembered teaching. We were surprised she remembered her name. They had a wonderful reunion. Like Matthew, LaNae had also worn thick eyeglasses and was also teased by her peers, but she also was a beneficiary of Ms. Chase’s magic and has also transformed into a happy well-balanced member of society. She is happily married with two children.

I know our children are not the only students Ms. Chase has helped and not forgotten. I know she remembers them all.

Thanks again for your dedicated teachers, especially Ms. Betty Chase, who work far beyond any pay that can never compensate them for the lives they change.

If there are any school or district recognitions, such as the foundation for teacher excellence, I hope you will consider recommending Ms. Chase.

Allen Richardson