Recently, I had the opportunity to spend January in Gallup, N.M., observing and teaching students on the Navajo Native American Reservation. Native American education is very different from the education students receive in this school district. Cultural implications aside, attitudes towards education on the reservation are astoundingly negative.

The Austin Public School district has done a phenomenal job educating our area students. Collaboration and dedication among administrators, teachers and students has made a significant impact on the effectiveness of local learning that is apparent throughout our community.

I would like to thank the employees of District 492 for providing me with a life sustaining education, which has already proven valuable to me.

Matt Lunning

Austin High School Class of 2012

Luther College Class of 2016