Dear Residents of the Town of Monroe:

How do we begin to thank you? How do we express our gratitude when words are not enough?

Just over three years ago, the community of Sandy Hook experienced a most unfathomable event. In a matter of moments, our lives were irrevocably changed. But in our darkest hours, we found ourselves blessed with a light. The Town of Monroe opened its arms and welcomed our school with a loving embrace. Miraculously, our neighbor had a place for us; a place where we could begin our long journey of healing together.

As we attempt to assemble a list of all the people we need to thank, we realize that it is an impossible task. So many people from your town and your schools came together to transform a relatively empty shell of a former middle school into a school equipped to house elementary school children. No small task, and yet, when January 2013 came around, the school was ready for us. These volunteers gave up their free time over the Christmas break, performing tasks simple and monumental, anonymously; strangers tirelessly doing so much, not for personal gain or recognition, but because great tragedy often brings out the best of our humanity. We thank you all, from the bottom of our hearts.

The neighbors of Chalk Hill School have been so kind and so patient, too. Those first days, when it was most difficult to come back to school, all the welcoming signs and banners helped us know that we were loved. Our presence has complicated things for the area, with checkpoints and a lot of extra traffic. And yet, you've never made us feel that we have been a burden. You have only ever made us feel welcome.

Your police department gave us a sense of security at a time when we questioned if we'd ever feel secure again. They stepped in and shielded us from so many difficult situations that come with being a target for hoaxers and their ilk. Every morning, we were greeted with a smile and we knew we were safe. That is a gift beyond measure. And they did it out of love and compassion. Each officer has become a lifelong part of our Sandy Hook School family.

So, as we begin to ready ourselves for our move back to Sandy Hook, we say a final "Thank you" for your kindness, your generosity, and your friendship. You gave us strength when we needed it most and we will forever be in your debt.

With love,

Karen Wilk,

On behalf of the staff at

Sandy Hook Elementary School

2 Lyrical Lane, Sandy Hook

(This letter addressed to the Town of Monroe was received for publication in The Newtown Bee.)