Bethel Springs Elementary School
Thank you, Bethel Springs community!
My words cannot adequately express the extent of my gratitude and appreciation for the outpouring of warmth and generosity I have received in the past few weeks--the kind words (expressed in cards, emails, videos, and in person), the thoughtful and generous gifts, and, of course, the amazing "drive by" parade! The parade was overwhelming in the best possible way. I especially thank Mrs. Allen, the BSES staff, and the BSES Home and School Association for arranging that most wonderful celebration. The parade was healing as well as celebratory. After three long months of physical separation, I was able to be with the students, staff, and families of BSES! Being with all of you is the greatest joy of my work and the parade gave me that in wonderful heaping amounts before having to part from all of you.
I extend my thanks to the Bethel Fire and Police departments for adding a festive touch to the parade! Our school has always had a great relationship with both departments. Some of our BSES parents and former students are among their ranks.
I must thank Maryann Vaughn (GV parent and my former student--Saint Joesph's School Class of 1989) and Tara Faccenda (BSES parent) for arranging news coverage. Maryann is currently the Assistant News Director at Fox 29 and Tara currently works as the Executive Director for the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences and was formerly an Assignment/Planning Editor for Fox 29. I thank these ladies for using their positions/contacts to add to the occasion! While I am personally hesitant to have that amount of attention (the helicopters were a little daunting!), I love that the beautiful spirit of the BSES school community was in the spotlight. Also, the news coverage precipitated email contacts from a number of former students who happened to see it. I even heard from a couple students who were part of my first class in 1984!
Please know how grateful I am for the many blessings that I have received in the past 18 years! It has been a privilege to serve and be a part of this most special community. I will carry all of you in my heart always. Thank you!
Mr. Steve Piasecki