Most of the school staff was away for summer vacation

Unfortunately I feel like Acacia Elementary School's staff unfairly came under attack when the majority, if not all, of Acacia's staff aren't currently working in the summer school program (T.O. Acorn letters of July 2, "Staff set a bad example at Acacia.") The Conejo Valley Unified School District Special Education Department is using our site for a summer program. The staff currently working at our site is comprised of employees from all the schools throughout the district and not Acacia.

Although I agree the situation was unfortunate, please try and show understanding. We're fortunate to have jobs, but we've sacrificed quite a bit, and do so with a smile and positive attitude so we can educate our youth.

I marvel at the tireless dedication, special education teachers and aides put in day in and day out. We've said goodbye to many of our colleagues recently due to the budget restraints placed upon us by the state. We're taking furlough days, and paying more for healthcare premiums. The special education teachers have all these pressures and more.

They have hours of paperwork, meetings with scrutinizing parents, they change diapers, feed children, etc. Although the bus situation may have seemed insignificant, it might have been the straw that broke the camel's back. Special education teachers and aides should be applauded.

Although the situation should have been handled differently, don't judge others until you've walked a mile in their shoes.

Being a general education teacher, I have the best job on earth.

Ms. Todd, I hope you feel fortunate your son goes to private school, but has access to a free summer school program provided by a public school district. Most CVUSD families who would benefit from summer school no longer have this opportunity since the district canceled general education elementary summer school.

I know my son and I are thankful to be a part of a loving, talented hardworking staff at Acacia Elementary School. Jennifer Reed Thousand Oaks