Thank You Teachers, From the Pandemic Parents

Dear Teachers,

This school year has been hard on everyone. I know it’s been especially hard on you. Words can never express our gratitude for all you have done.

I would like to thank you for helping the parents and our children navigate through this year. You welcomed our children with open arms (at a distance of 6ft). No matter the circumstances, you all rose to the occasion. From virtual open houses and parent teacher conferences to virtual school at the drop of a hat. You are the ones who should be praised.

I’m sure there were nights of tears, worry and frustration, but our children never saw you break. You found ways for them interact within the restrictions. You made the year as “normal” as possible.

Our children may have questioned the many new rules they were given, but never did they question if you loved them. When someone missed days due to exposure or contracting Covid you made sure they didn’t fall behind, working with them individually. This, adding more to your ever growing plate of responsibility. Again, doing it all without question because your love and dedication never wavered.

As parents we made sure you had everything you needed to keep yourself and our kids safe. We sent extra Clorox wipes, paper towels and sanitizer when you requested without question.

Teacher appreciation week this year meant more than ever. Treats, gifts, handwritten cards and drawings could never fully express how much we appreciate all you have sacrificed this year. Daily, you put our kids safety above your own. That, in itself, deserves a metal…. or a large pitcher of margaritas.

All of our teachers this year will always hold a special place in our hearts. You all are true angels in your own right.

Thank you will never be enough. But, I hope you know how much we appreciate you. I hope you know that we will always look back on this year as one where we, as parents, questioned a lot of things, but never once questioned if you were there for our children. You have been there for them every single step of the way, every day, and that means more to us than you will ever know.

So, I  hope you have a wonderful, relaxing summer knowing that although we will miss you terribly, we love you whole-heartily and will never be able to thank you for everything you did for us this year.

Enjoy the quiet. Enjoy the sun. Enjoy the maskless moments. You deserve all of it and more.

With all the love,

Parents of the Pandemic

Patrice LaBauve
Patrice is a Baton Rouge native that moved to the area to attend UL Lafayette in 2002 and never looked back. Since graduating with a degree in Public Relations she has worked in the insurance business on both personal and commercial sides. Her love of her Cajun heritage made it an easy decision to marry her New Iberia born and raised husband, Matt. They now resides in Youngsville and have two daughters Jolie (9) and Amelie (5) and her bonus son, Eli (14). On most weekdays you will find her running the roads to the dance studio, soccer field or her favorite place, 220 Fitness. The weekends are her favorite family time and are usually spent cooking with her family, watching her daughter show off her goalie skills, checking out any festival around the area, and catching all Saints and Cajuns game. She and her husband are craft beer drinkers, but she also won’t turn down a good Pinot Noir or fancy cocktail. She loves a good philanthropic event, to-do lists, singing in front of people whenever she gets the chance, her gym family and live music. Lafayette has been the perfect place to raise her children and immerse them in the culture she loves.