Ms. O'Connell was more than just a teacher, she was a surrogate parent. My brother had her in second grade but her influence went beyond him to those in the house who never had the honor of having her. She used to write birthday cards for each and every student in her class for up to three or four years after they left her class. She paid for a school trip when we could not afford it. She was always upbeat and happy. She exuded joy to all who knew her. She is one of the most influential people I have known. Her kindness, her caring, her meticulousness, she is an unsung hero. If we had more teachers like her, our society would not be the way it is now. She MUST be commended.
-Irene Arholekas,
Former Student