To the editor:

As a parent of two New Ulm public school graduates and two students currently enrolled in the middle school and high school, I have a solid perspective on the incredible job New Ulm public schools is doing to prepare students for their future, academically and socially. Of our graduates, one is attending a four-year college, the other, a two-year trade school. Both children were offered opportunities to prepare for their future by taking Advanced Placement (AP) classes, college classes, hands-on classes at the CTE Center, a skilled trade internship, and numerous opportunities through extra-curricular activities. Our middle and high school students also currently benefit from accelerated classes, AP classes, college classes, and a wide variety of extra-curricular activities. These opportunities have greatly helped our graduates find success in their post-secondary studies and are continuing to prepare our current school students for their future plans.

New Ulm public schools works to support all students and to foster a culture of respect and understanding toward others. Our graduates have interacted with roommates, other students in the dormitories, professors, instructors, co-workers, and employers who have different backgrounds and life experiences. As students graduate and step into the larger world, it is equally important that they have developed a sense of respect and empathy for those who are different from them.

I have already voted for Steve Gag, Amanda Groebner, and Melissa Sunderman for the New Ulm public school board and I have voted to continue to support our public schools. I ask that you do the same and help continue the work of our public school system to prepare all students academically and socially for the futures they will face.

Tamara Furth

New Ulm