June 10, 2021 at 1:12 p.m.

So long, it's been good to know you

To the Editor,

A new school year shouldn't start without an expression of gratitude for the years of exceptional service that Mrs. Jill McKinney provided to the students of Longville and Remer elementary schools. I witnessed first hand the dedication of Mrs. McKinney as a physical education specialist. After 24 years of teaching in the cities, I retired and "transplanted" to the Pointview shores of Leech Lake in 2006. After two years I realized I missed the interaction with students in the elementary gym. With the approval of the principal, I began volunteering Friday mornings at Longville Elementary School, team teaching with Mrs. McKinney. I was referred to as a "Community expert resource" and the students basically got two gym teachers for the price of one.

In bringing new ideas and activities to Mrs. McKinney and her students, perhaps I learned more from her. I could readily see that she delivered a well-rounded, diverse curriculum, which focused on physical fitness, good sportsmanship, cooperation and motor skill development. She encouraged good behavior with generous compliments and a keen sense of humor. She disciplined with mutual respect and promoted student-generated consequences. She made physical activity fun. Mrs. McKinney put in the extra time, energy and devotion to make student opportunities happen. It was she who brought innovative units such as "Archery in the Schools." Other opportunities included State and National archery competitions, school fitness records, Presidential Fitness Awards, family night activities, varsity volleyball, etc. The students and athletes were motivated by her efforts. They liked her. The will surely miss her.

The closing of Longville Elementary School resulted in many losses. I could walk in that school any time of any school day as a volunteer or a substitute teacher and find quiet halls. Students were always actively engaged in learning activities in their classrooms guided by a caring, professional crew of teachers. It was a very unique place to learn and grow. It was truly a school of excellaence. Today, the first day of the new school year, the doors are closed and locked. No one feels the loss more than the kids. Ask them. So, on behalf of the kids, we applaud you Mrs. McKinney and the rest of our teachers for being a part of our school career.

It was an honor to be your colleague, Jill, and a blessing to become your friend.

Mary Whitney

Johnson,

Federal Dam, Minn.[[In-content Ad]]

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