To my fifth grade teacher,

Fifth grade is usually filled with fun times and friends, but my fifth grade experience was a tad more dramatic than that. I lost two of my grandparents and struggled with who I was as a person. My self-esteem was at an all time low and my love for writing was slowly fading. However, thanks to you, I powered through and focused on becoming a better person. I was influenced greatly by your constant positivity and encouragement. You introduced me to what has become one of my favorite book series of all time, "Percy Jackson and the Olympians." I remember being pulled into a world of Greek and Roman gods and forgetting all my problems. Your support has affected me in more ways than you can imagine and for that I am eternally grateful. I have come a long way since I first entered your classroom over five years ago. I am more confident in my writing and in myself due to your support. Although I am still growing and becoming who I really am, I'm sure I'll be fine. You've taught me to stay true to myself and to stay strong. The memories in your classroom will stay with me for the rest of my life and will inspire me to keep going. I know that years later I can still count on you if I need to. I'm sure I am not the first or the last of your students to feel this way so on behalf of every student you have influenced, thank you. Keep encouraging students to do what they love because they will take it to heart.

Sincerely,

KC Mendoza (aka the shy girl from your 2010-2011 class)