May 6, 2025 – Yolanda Sanders wiped tears from her eyes as she stood before her class, hearing the heartfelt letter of gratitude and appreciation.
“I am writing this letter to let you know that you are my favorite teacher. I can’t express to you how much I appreciate your empathy and giving me the confidence I need to be successful.”
The letter, penned by student Abby Boyd, was presented and read to the Alden Road Exceptional Student Center teacher during a surprise visit by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Christopher Bernier. It’s all part of “Gratitude in Ink,” a special letter-writing assignment designed to help graduating seniors thank teachers who have made a significant impact on their educational journey.
“Gratitude in Ink” is a labor of love Dr. Bernier says he’s carried out in four other school systems and was eager to see played out in Team Duval. All seniors were given an opportunity to write a thank you letter to a teacher. Dr. Bernier, along with members of the school board and other district leaders, then hand-delivered and read the letters during Teacher Appreciation Week.
For John E. Ford PreK-8 teacher Terry Woolard, known by his students as “Mr. T,” his surprise letter came from Riverside High School student Iyana Lee, who credited the educator for helping her gain confidence in her ability to read. Woolard’s wife was also present as Dr. Bernier presented the letter before his first and second-grade students.
“I was reading, writing, and spelling things so much better,” Lee writes. “I also found out I loved math and science, which I never thought of those type of things before. That year ended up being my favorite year of elementary school.”
Woolard was not the only John E. Ford teacher to receive a letter from a former student. Chief Academic Officer Paula Renfro surprised teacher Sharon Wolfe with a note from William M. Raines High School senior Kennesha Cooksey.
“I knew that you would give me the support I needed to be successful going into high school,” shares Cooksey. “No matter how hard I may have made it for you during my years during your class, you never gave up on helping me when I needed it.”
Renfro shares that by celebrating teachers, the district helps students value and understand the importance of lifelong learning.
“It sends a message to students that learning is a continuous journey and that those who guide this journey are deeply valued and appreciated,” explains Renfro.