Like Captured Fireflies

by John Steinbeck

In her classroom our speculations ranged the world.

She aroused us to book waving discussions.

Every morning we came to her carrying new truths, new facts, new ideas

Cupped and sheltered in our hands like captured fireflies.

When she went away a sadness came over us,

But the light did not go out.

She left her signature upon us

The literature of the teacher who writes on children's minds.

I've had many teachers who taught us soon forgotten things.

But only a few like her who have created in me a new thing, a new hunger, a new attitude.

I suppose that to a large extent I am the unsigned manuscript of that teacher.

What deathless power lies in the hands of such a teacher.

It is hard to believe that Sarah has been gone for 6 years. Her spirit, however, remains with us along with beautiful memories. At some point during the last month or so of Sarah's life, she shared her concern that she might be forgotten. That conversation led to the idea of setting up a scholarship in her memory for students at Meadow Wood Elementary who she would have known during the time she taught there. Sarah would be happy to know that the scholarship fund is a reality. Thanks to each and everyone of you who have made this possible. Our heart goes out to you.

In fact, the first Sarah Chidgey Memorial Scholarship will be given to one student from Spring Branch I.S.D. this coming May. The scholarship will provide the selected student at least $1000 per year for four years. I know Sarah would be so proud. There will be five additional scholarships provided in the coming years with a duration of four years each. If you would still like to donate, you may at the following link:

https://cms.springbranchisd.com/sbef/Donate-Now/Donate-Online

Sarah also asked to be remembered through "Shine Bright" gifts to the Alamo Heights School Foundation in San Antonio that will be used to support instruction and inspire teachers. We are glad to report that the collected funds were used provide enrichment experiences for at risk elementary students during this past 2016 summer.

Much love always,
Denise, David, Brooke, & Eric