Editors, Vineyard Gazette:

Anyone who knows me knows that I am passionate about the high quality of education we have on the Vineyard. I truly feel that we are the luckiest school system in the commonwealth. Our teachers and staff are dedicated to their work and have a vested interest in each and every child. As another school year begins I want to take a moment to thank all of you.

For the first time in 17 years we will not be sending our daughters off to an Island school. Our youngest is settled in at college, our middle daughter a senior in college and our oldest living and working in education in Boston.

Looking back over our experience in many different schools here I am struck with how many lifelong relationships have been created. From our preschool teachers who lovingly started the girls on their journey to their early teachers who taught them reading, writing, math, etc, but also how to be kind and compassionate; to their teachers at the high school who mentored them and inspired them; to the guidance counselors and staff who worked tirelessly to assist with their college plans; to the coaches who taught them not only a sport but sportsmanship — we have met amazing individuals along the way. (I, of course, would also be remiss I didn’t especially thank the amazing staff at the Edgartown School cafeteria who always made sure those Mercier girls were well taken care of!)

I have so many fond memories from these past years and so many people to thank for constantly supporting not just my children, but our family as a whole. I learned along with my girls — how to listen to them, encourage them and how to guide them through. All thanks to the staff in each building. I will miss my connection to the schools as a parent. I will miss parent-teacher conferences, cheering from the stands as our girls took to the field, ice or stage, but I am truly thankful for the friends I have made along the way and the lessons each of you have taught me.

Susan Mercier

Edgartown