Another sad day for the Lake Washington School District (LWSD) kids and families as Pierina Austin says goodbye. Pierina came to LWSD in 1989 at Emily Dickinson Elementary School where I had the privilege to serve as principal. Pierina brought “whole language” to LWSD, which morphed over time into “the whole child” movement, an emphasis on each individual student, their interests, unique learning styles, gifts. Pierina also championed the inclusive schools movement, which began at Dickinson and brought children with disabilities into the mainstream of school life for the first time. Pierina’s deep knowledge base often intimidated young teacher who were focused on data and assessments. But Pierina consistently offered help, support and friendship. And she never gave upon any child! Many will miss Pierina.

Jeff Newport

Vancouver, Wash.