Teachers and staff have spent all summer preparing for a uniquely challenging school year, and one Mid-Prairie parent wanted to show appreciation for their hard work. Sara O’Donnell felt some disconnection among community members due to the many aspects and decisions of the Return to Learn plan. To show support and appreciation for teachers and staff at Mid-Prairie, O’Donnell and retired teacher Vanessa Spring created simple wooden signs that include the message “MP Strong” in a yellow heart for everyone that works at the school district. O’Donnell was surprised to see such a positive response from school staff and community members, “I didn’t realize the impact it was going to make. So many people have reached out with the most heartfelt messages of the things they are struggling with. There’s been a lot of divisiveness in our community about what the right answer is and from all aspects of it. Like do we do all online, do we go back and wear masks. All of it has been a debate. We just really wanted a way to let the staff know they are valued, and know their concerns are valid, and that we love them.” O’Donnell and her team have made 100 signs so far, and have 143 left to create for Mid-Prairie staff members. Community members have also reached out to O’Donnell for their own signs, which she hopes she can create after the staff signs are done.