I am a second-year ELA teacher at MS 137 in Ozone Park, Queens (“A real class act,” Sept. 5 issue). After spending 12 years of my own education in conservative private schools, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I applied here. I was immediately welcomed by the warmest and most gracious staff I have ever had the pleasure of working with. One of the many achievements that my school proudly mentioned on welcome day was the community’s dedication to giving back and students’ knack for returning to the home they had made at 137.

I cannot express how deeply profound and humbling it is to work among former MS 137 students. These are educators who have seen and become the building blocks of what makes our school so rich, which is what they strive to maintain daily — supporting students socially, emotionally and intellectually through every possible avenue of education. Moreover, seeing our school’s diverse culture reflected in our returning alumni has promoted a genuine sense of pride and connection within our community and cultivates a deeper appreciation for the unique backgrounds and experiences that all individuals bring into our building. Experiencing this firsthand has been such a significant part in helping me grow as both a teacher and a learner. It has encouraged empathy and understanding among all of us here at 137.

Maria Carlucci, MS 137, Queens