School of Innovation (SOI) seniors in Ms. Sarah Negash's English class have a special assignment each spring before graduation: Write a letter to the teacher or staff member in any Springfield City School District building who has influenced your educational journey the most.
The seniors then surprise the staff members at their buildings with the letters during what is nationally recognized as 'Teacher Appreciation Week.’ Many times, these heartfelt gestures leave staff in tears and with a renewed sense of purpose. These educators may not have seen these students in several years, but it is rewarding to know they made a profound impact on their lives.
This year, SOI students chose to recognize staff members at Hayward Middle School, Roosevelt Middle School, Springfield High School and SOI.
A video of students surprising the staff members is available to view at this link: https://tinyurl.com/yc4rdkuu