Letter to the Editor; Wehrs return to small-town roots

Dear Odessa and surrounding community,

We would like to take the time to thank you for your incredible support; it is our honor and privilege to be back home! We are grateful to Odessa for supporting our adventure to try a larger school district. Many of you visited, sent notes, cards and care packages along the way and continually checked in on how we were doing as a family.

Although our journey was exciting, and we learned a lot about a larger educational system, it certainly did not fit either Jeff’s style of teaching or the educational approach we wanted for our boys. Jeff was asked to help create a science model similar to the one he created in Odessa, but on a larger scale. The model worked great, as they had a very successful year, and the new district respected his style of teaching and research-based methodology. The administration wanted to incorporate this model into the entire science department, however we all missed the freedom and creativity that smaller class sizes and school districts offer.

Our family grew up in rural America, and with that we were reminded that small communities mean individualized attention and freedom for creativity, not only regarding education but all aspects of life. We are grateful that the circumstances allowed for our return to the rural community of our choice: Odessa!

We are very fortunate to be home and are willing to discuss our adventures. The Odessa School District, including the incredible people who make it an award-winning school, is the ultimate choice for all of our students. Years ago, a few of us teachers created an unofficial school motto entitled “Odessa School District, a private school at a public price.” This really means our school district, and all businesses in Odessa, cater to the citizen in an individualized manner. In the city, people often feel like a number as they stand in long lines waiting, but in Odessa you are a person. You have a name and are treated that way, and we are grateful for that.

Thank you for being a great place to live and thrive and for welcoming us home to the family that is Odessa.

And to quote the Blue’s Brothers, “We’re getting the band back together!”