After the sobering event at Sandy Hook Elementary, I wanted to give some encouraging feedback about Bend-La Pine Schools.

I teach in two buildings — High Lakes Elementary and Miller Elementary. Your child’s safety has been the No. 1 priority.

I appreciated the leadership of Susan Heberlein and Steve Hill during this time. Front office staff diligently checked in all visitors. It was a hard week but a reassuring one. Some of the best moments were seeing students working on projects with their parents. A sense of community was evident.

I am also a parent of two students at Bend High School. On Thursday night that week, we attended the Bend Choir concert. It was heartwarming to hear traditional Christmas songs and to have an opportunity to sing together in unison. What a great concert Luke MacSween and students delivered for families.

The next day, I went into Bend High School to talk with a teacher and found students calm and talking to one another with ease. As a parent, I felt comforted. I want to reassure you that all is being done to protect your children. I have many of the same concerns that you do as a parent and as a teacher.

After that week, in our school district, I have been reassured by the efforts made by all.

Thank you, Bend-La Pine Schools.

Carole Nase

Bend