1 Ana Fernández — Re: “Reading is no longer a quixotic mission — Teacher shares her experience with DISD’s new curriculum,” by Ana Fernández, May 24 Opinion.
This column by Fernández almost took my breath away. It took me back over 70 years to when I was a fourth grader in the Chicago Public School system. Early on that year, my teacher, Mrs. Jones, realized that I could not read! No idea why nobody else noticed this, but she promptly put me into a specialized learning class for reading.
I was the first in the group to “graduate” and before long I was checking out five to six books at a time from the public library. I still remember some of those books and Mrs. Jones, who will always have a special place in my heart.
More currently though, thank you so much, Ana Fernández, for being such a brilliant educator. Your students will have loving memories of you years from now — when many of them will be outstanding citizens.
Dan Siculan, Royse City
2 Melinda French Gates — Melinda French Gates, The Dallas Morning News Texan of the Year in 2020, recently made headlines when she announced that she is leaving the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for a new chapter in her philanthropy. In this new chapter, she will dedicate $1 billion over the next two years toward organizations working on behalf of women and families around the world.
This news made headlines across the country and the world. The Dallas Morning News should celebrate this groundbreaking announcement from one of Dallas’ own. Kudos to her for helping women and families.
Michelle Chiara, Dallas/Lake Highlands
3 Time away — In April, we took a 10-day trip with 22 people we didn’t know from all over the country and one couple from Canada. We all got along. I have no clue about anyone’s politics or personal feelings about anything other than their personal experiences, their families, where they live, what activities they do in their spare time and their food and wine preferences. Note: we didn’t all agree about food and wine; that said, we had choices and let each make their own without comment. It didn’t stop anyone from enjoying their choices!
It was a wonderful experience and we experienced the wonder of travel, seeing new sites, learning about a different country, traditions and people. I wish everyone could do this and understand that we can learn from and enjoy each other without all the noise constantly swirling around us.
It doesn’t have to be a trip, just a bit of time away from all the shouting. Just stop, listen and enjoy new people and a new place and laugh together. That’s the key, listening and laughing, a lot.
Perri Brackett, Lewisville
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