One Of Those

Special Individuals

To the Editor:

Ever look back to your childhood school days and recall that one special teacher you had that made a difference in your education and, quite possibly, your life? The one who “got it”? Who understood what you, as a young student, needed to fare well? She, or he, knew you had “it” in you, but no other teacher had yet taken the time to mine the depths of your inner self to extract “it.” Sure, many teachers are overwhelmed in their duties, but there are a few who, like cream, rise to the top.

Annette Chionilos is one of those special individuals. Reading last week’s article in The Newtown Bee about Ms Chionilos’s donation of her kidney to a high school chum was awe-inspiring, but not surprising. Her daily, selfless work at Newtown High School is evident in her students’ success and well-being. It is why she has been a past nominee for Teacher of the Year.

Ms Chionilos’s organ donation not only rescued her acquaintance, but, based on the article, may have ultimately saved her own life. One good deed does deserve another.

You rock, Annette!

Robert Hennessey

21 Sleepy Hollow Road, Sandy Hook                            March 8, 2011