VICKIE DEE WEISS

https://www.michigandaily.com/michigan-in-color/a-dedication-to-my-first-reader/

~ Nazim Ali, 5th Grade, City School, 2014
Now Sophomore, Univ of Michigan.

I don´t know if family checks this anymore, but I thought by chance if they do, I would share that she has impacted not only my life but the life of my mother as well. My mother in 4-12-22 passed from Angio sarcoma. She was mentored by Mrs. Weiss when I was in her class that was mixed grade class, the first year Cook Elementary school opened (1995?) and I was in her 5th grade.
My mother went in to teach in SC and Washington state, inspired to be like Mrs. Weiss. I have never forgotten Odyssey of the Mind with her (I was Ms. Frizzle in a time traveling skit). I didn´t understand growing up how other teachers couldn´t be just like her. I would sit in class after 5th grade with the amazing Mrs. Weiss and wish she was my teacher every single year. It was as if she opened her students eyes from seeing in black in white to all of a sudden seeing vibrant color all around them. She captivated everyone around her. I remember so much of that year with all the hands on field trip experiences and have hoarded the notebooks and even the papers she had is create.
After moving to SC, I rarely had a glimpse of an experience with a teacher like her. People say that college is the best time of your life. 5th grade with Mrs. Weiss as your teacher was it more me in my schooling years. She made you feel loved, accepted, important and pushed you to be the best version of yourself.
I´ll never forget her, not in a million years.
Thank you for sharing your beloved mother/grandmother with my family. It was a blessing to be her student.

Vickie Also my old 5th grade teacher taught me so much and how she taught me about the little things that really helped me. i had trouble writing not in all caps and she told me '' one day you'll learn'' so i tried and tried and succeed i'm in 8th grade now about to go into high school i will never forget how amazing Vickie Weiss was to me and all of the kids she has teached she will never be forgotten and she is my hero. i miss you

I was in Mrs. Weiss's fifth grade class at Indian Hills during the '80-'81 school year. It was a perfect year for her style of teaching: Jaques Cousteau's ship, the Calypso, docked in Detroit; the first space shuttle, Columbia, launched; the hostages were released from Iran when Ronald Reagan was inaugurated; and Mount St. Helens erupted, killing long-time resident Harry Truman in spite of the fact that every student in our class wrote to him and asked him leave. The fact that I remember each of these events vividly is a testament to her teaching.

I also remember, in an era where nobody wore black unless they were in mourning, Mrs. Weiss sometimes wore black. She warned us in advance that if she wore black to school on any given day we should be on our best behavior because she was most likely in a bad mood. I have been a teacher for nearly 30 years myself, and I have never reached the level of impact Vickie had on her students.

She treated us like adults and held us to the highest of standards. More than 30 years later, I found myself at a hospital fundraiser, sitting around a table with hospital and business leaders. I'm not sure how, but the conversation turned to Vickie Weiss. Almost everyone at the table had a story about how she directly impacted the person and professional he or she became. Some of us were her students, and some of us were parents or grandparents of her students, but all of us spoke her name with reverence.

She raised a beautiful and loving family, and my mother taught with her at Indian Hills, so I know that she was just as well loved and respected by her coworkers.

Some people should live forever because they do so much to improve the world we live in. Vickie Weiss was one of those people, and she will be missed.

I owe a lot to her. She was my mentor and teacher. It's hard to realize that's she's not with us. I can't bear to hear her name without bursting into tears of sadness and pride. She was my everything... She helped me get better at things that were hard for me, and she made me the person I am today, a 7th grader at GBEMS (Grand Blanc East Middle School). I spoke at the memorial service, on the verge of tears. I was trembling and a wreck. But after the memorial service was over, people came up to me and told me how great I am. That's when I realized, Mrs. Weiss helped me to become a good public speaker, writer, and so much more. She was the best. I am sending you my prayers as we all try to get through this tragedy.

Sincerely,

Jasmine Coryell
2017-2018 School year

Mrs. Weiss was the greatest person I've ever known. She was my 5th grade teacher 2 years ago. She was tough on me, and she prepared me for the hardest years of my life. I owe so much to her and I can't even bear to hear her name anymore without thinking that she's gone. She was important to me, and my peers, and many more. I wish you the best as we all try to move on from this.

Sincerely,

Jasmine Coryell
2017-2018 School year

Vickie was known throughout Genesee County as an exemplary teacher. She expected excellence from her students and herself. What an opportunity for children to explore their many gifts and talents while in her presence. "Giftedness" to your Mom was a behavior which emerges when a person's passion for a topic ignites his/her creativity. She never settled for mediocrity.

In preparation for the 2019 Odyssey of the Mind International event Vickie wrote a grant to the James A. Welch Foundation to support the students participation held at Michigan State University. I attended the ceremony at the Breslin Center, (how nice for her to end OM near the legacy of your Dad's Board of Trustee tenure). Her enthusiasm was contagious. When talking to her you would think that she was a new teacher!
I am sad because she had just gotten out of the hospital to put the final touches on the OM grant.
Nothing was going to stop her from going to OM International. My conversations with her during May and June are heartfelt. I am just learning about her passing. So sorry that I could not be in attendance.

If one of you could call me I would appreciate it because your Mom and Dad created one of the greatest legacy's in Grand Blanc and throughout Genesee County.

Your Mom gave her life as a dedicated, energized teacher willing to focus on helping all children explore their special gifts and talents through experiential learning. She completed her mission on earth with love, kindness, and hope for the future of all the children she touched daily.

Hi Jan & Alex,
Very sorry to hear about the loss of your mother, Jan,,,I didnt really know her, but my friend Patty Rockafellow did, because they taught together for years & became friends.

Mrs. Weiss was one of my first teachers that taught me education could and should be fun. She created a passion for learning in all of her students. Something I try to emulate as a teacher in Grand Blanc myself. I remember her encouraging us to pursue our passions, allowing us to write on our desks for math, the time she saw how much I enjoyed pottery and allowed me to come to her house and use her kiln, and the endless educational experiences outside of the classroom. Her legacy and passion for teaching will live on in the thousands of lives she touched as an educator.

Vickie was a wonderful teacher and friend. I taught with her at Indian Hill and had such fun planning field trips with her class and my Kindergarten classes. She was Frank and Danas teacher at Indian Hill. They were so fortunate to have her as their teacher. She was truly the best!
Our condolences to Sandy, Jan, and Pam and their families. We send our love.

Vicky was an amazing woman. She and her husband hosted me for 2 weeks at an exchange program from Paris. She was a woman full of positive energy and contributed alit to her community. I regret the never came to see us in Paris May she rest in peace. Martine ohana

No matter when, it's always too soon. Your parents contributed so much of themselves to make the world a better place and because of that, they each have special place in so many people's hearts, including ours. Sending a big hug to your entire family. We are thinking of Vickie's wonderful, warm smile this evening.

Sending my heartfelt sympathies to the family. I have many memories that warm my heart and I hope the many good memories you have will bring some comfort as you find your way during this difficult time.

We have wonderful memories of Vickie (and Bob) on many trips to cheer on the Spartan Basketball program. Her positivity was refreshing, she shared it with all around her and she was just plain FUN! The world has lost a creative and generous force. Wishing her and the entire family peace and love.

The Mikolaizik family appreciates the foundation that Vickie provided for our three children, Danielle, Ryan & Alex. Your incredible work and passion for education will live on thru ALL the students you have taught over the years. May you rest in peace on your last field trip.

Thank you Vickie for being a huge part of our family's life.

Dan & Tammy

Like many, I knew Vickie as a fellow educator. Being new at the time, I learned right away who she was. At teacher meetings I watched her and I listened to what she said. Although our interactions with one another were brief, there were two things that were obvious about her work as an educator: She led with passion/energy and she always did what was best for kids. She was a role model for us all. Rest in peace, Vickie.

she was a fantastic teacher and person. she prepared her students for the next level and showed them how to succeed. my daughter had the privilege of having her in 4th and 5th grade at city school. she also was was on the om teams that made it to worlds both years. she cared about the children and there future. her field trips were meant to teach and show students real life. my daughter liked the fact that she could go back to class and help out at the end of the year. she will be missed by students and parents past and present, but most of all those who will not get a chance to have her as a teacher will be missing out on greatness.

Vicky was an amazing person, a wonderful and loving mother and a fantastic and passionate teacher. With over 55 years of teaching, she finished up her career this past spring at the age of 79. WOW ! She is headed to the teacher's hall of fame. She will be deeply missed.

Mrs. Weiss was an inspiration to each and every one of her students, friends, family, and more. She brought her own flair to the world through her kindness, perseverance, and creativity. I am forever grateful for my time spent with her both in and out of the classroom.

She challenged me to learn more, question more, and create more. She showed me that no matter what the circumstance, anything is possible with hard work and patience. I thank Mrs. Weiss for giving me the opportunity to experience such amazing things at a young age through interactive classroom activities and field trips, as well as making me a stronger person beyond my days at City School. The community she helped build was unlike any other, and even though that community may be spread out across the globe, we will always be a City School family thanks to her dedication as an educator.

Rest in peace, Mrs. Weiss. Your memories will live on through the lessons you taught us all. We love you.

I had a set of twins that attended city school for fourth and fifth grade with Mrs. Weiss , truly the best teacher my boys ever had, it was always an educational experience, field trip after field trip , it was extraordinary to watch my children whom been in school all day long come home at night and still continue to talk about what they learned in school that day, it was the only time the boys ever share the same class but it was also the best learning environment . She brought out the best from my boys . Grateful to have been around such an true educator . Thank you !

It is hard for me to describe how incredible woman she was in a few sentences. She had a strong will and personality challenging to understand sometimes but a huge heart; she was my kids 4th and 5th teacher at City School. Her passion for teaching and guide kids to reach her potential was not limited to the classroom.
Her legacy is part of my Son and Daughter life, so many excellent moments and other not that much but that was Vicky. She will never be forgotten rest in peace you have done an excellent job.

Mrs. Weiss is a major reason I live the life I do today. Service to and empathy for others, and an understanding that justice is not a given were grounding ideals in my family, but Mrs. Weiss is the teacher I remember who reiterated those pillars and put them in context. I live in Chicago now, and remember our 5th grade field trip here fondly, but also remember Mrs. Weiss stating that we would see homeless people, and they are humans, not lesser-thans. And then we read a book called Monkey Island, about a homeless population in NYC to further elaborate that point.

Grand Blanc wasn't the most diverse community, but it was Mrs Weiss telling us about the civil Rights movement that I still remember today. It was Mrs Weiss sharing about the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr, and how the world changed for her and the world right then. Serious and important stuff to share with 5th graders. I remain grateful that she didn't hide realities from us.

I also remember we went sledding at rust park around MLK day, and I thought it was too "fun" or an activity around such a somber day of observance. To this day, I can hear Mrs Weiss say "I don't Dr. King would want another more than kids having fun and laughing."

I have made my career in serving underrepresented and disengaged populations, and Mrs. Weiss, along with my parents and grandparents, that led me here.

I am also grateful to her family for sharing her with us. Commitment to education and making a difference is not a solo effort.

May her memory be eternal. My deepest condolences to her family and community.

I remember so many lessons and memories from my time with Mrs. Weiss for which I will be forever grateful. Over the years, her focus, care, and concern in the classroom, and especially during our Odyssey of the Mind World Finals training, has aided my growth and proven instrumental in my life.

As a college senior, there is one memory that particularly stands out. During one of our interactive learning sessions, Mrs. Weiss split the classroom into two groups for a debate. The first two opponents selected were to argue their position on whatever topic was proposed, on that day it was something to do with paint can sales. The clear winner would remain on the debate couch while their opponent was replaced by a teammate.

I grew more comfortable with each debate, working through the other side. Eventually, Mrs. Weiss joined the other team and moved to the couch to oppose my position. However, she then changed the rules forcing me to switch sides and argue from a different perspective. After we went back and forth a few times, she stopped, turned to the class and said, Its important to understand where everyone is coming from. Without that, you will never be able to fully believe your argument. She closed by turning to me and said, You will make a great attorney one day.

In July, I sat for the LSAT exam, the entry test required to apply for law school. I am eternally grateful that Mrs. Weiss believed in me which has deeply impacted my life. My sympathies to her family. She was incredible.

Not only was in Mrs. Weiss 5th grade class, I was also fortunate to participate in the French Exchange program with her for two years. Now, 30ish years later, I am a parent of two elementary aged children. Every year as we near the new school year, one or both will ask me about my favorite teacher and/or grade My response is always the same, Mrs. Weiss. Fifth grade. This always prompts further probing about why. The answer is simple she made learning fun. She had such a unique approach to educating her students; nothing I had ever experienced before. We learned through experience & field trips, wed reenact historical events on the playground versus just reading about them and who can forget running in from recess in attempt to get a spot on the sofa to watch 3-2-1 Contact! Hands down best teacher ever! Condolences to all her loved ones.

To the family; I am sorry for your loss I will truly miss her she have been my friend since I started working in grandblanc doing janitorial I had the change to meet her family grandkids and I can say she loved her family she will be trurly missed

Mrs. Weiss was my fifth grade teacher at Indian Hill Elementary and I have such fond memories of her! Our classroom was an annex outside of the school, but we didn't spend much time there, as we were always exploring on field trips. She created an amazing energy that you couldn't help but to gravitate towards and she will always be remembered as one of my favorite teachers. My deepest condolences to her family and close friends.

Sandy, Sorry to hear about your mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Lots of good memories of your family during our hockey days !

The world has lost a wonderful educator, I was lucky to have her as my 4th grade teacher, she had more impact on my life than she ever realized. My condolences to the family.

I send my Deepest Sympathy to Vickies children and their families. Vickie was a great teacher and a great person

Mrs. Weiss helped shape my life in a way that I could never have thanked her enough for. She is the reason that I became an educator myself. The way in which she truly impacted her students and opened them up to a world of possibilities is astounding. I will forever be grateful to her for all that she did for myself and my classmates. Rest in peace, Mrs. Weiss. We love you.

I was fortunate to spend seventeen days in Japan with Vickie, as guests of the Japan Foundation. Vickie was the impetus behind the Grant that we received, to tour the country. She was an incredible teacher, colleague, and friend !

Mrs. Weiss was extremely kind to my family at a time we needed it. She never judged people, she treated us like family. My son, Michael McConnell had her as a teacher, she took him shopping and bought him Michigan State items, spending her own money. She paid for a library book for me so I could get my daughter's report card at a time we were struggling financially, just went and paid it and brought me the report card. She was a fantastic teacher and wonderful woman. My family will never forget her. Grand Blanc school lost the beat teacher ever.

I have had the pleasure of waiting on Vickie at the Grand Blanc Post office for as long as I can remember. Her love and passion for teaching and her students was infectious. I will treasure all of our postal chats as we mailed in her students work regularly. Deepest sympathies to the friends and families of Vickie, she will be missed dearly.

I look Mrs Weiss on Field trips she was always kind,

Our family has been blessed to have known her for the past 11 years and my oldest daughter had the privilege to have had her as a teacher. Her passion for books and to never stop learning is inspiring to all. Children in our community have excelled in all academic areas that had had her as a teacher. She will never be forgotten.

My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Jan - as you know your mom is a legend in the educational world. She was a pioneer and paved the way using unique teaching strategies before they were popular with others. Loved that she was an out of the box thinker! I'm grateful she is at peace and together again with your dad! Cherish the beautiful memories you have as they will bring a smile to you every time you think about them. Hugs to all of you...

Jan, Im so sorry to hear about your mom. Love and prayers to you and your family.

The past few days have been a rush of memories, contemplation, and reflection on the ways Mrs. Weiss shaped my life and the lives of so many in my hometown, this state, and far beyond. But really, not a week goes by that I'm not reminded. Everyone who reads these letters will have their own collection of moments that comprise the ways this quintessential teacher fostered their intellectual curiosity, sense of possibility, drive to make change, community awareness, artistic creativity, scientific enthusiasm...the list is too long. But the most important thing I realize, the older I get, is that she's still teaching me every day. The way Mrs. Weiss approached not just learning, but living, made those things synonymous and continuous - for her students, our parents, for her community, and, I believe, for herself. We were all lucky to be a part of her life, and have the opportunity, every day, to carry on her legacy.

I had first contact with her through my grand sons who went to her class at Cuty School. They had a great time in her classes and have a sound foundation. Whe she learnt that I paint in water colours, she invited me to her class and we had a great fun. Since that day I had developed a personal contact
.
I am saddened to know death and pray that Lord Almighty bestow peace to her soul and give us strength to bear her liss

To Sandy, Jan, Pam and families.

Im so sorry to hear about your Mom. She was a very dedicated lady and will be missed. Im unable to attend the service as Ill be out of town but my prayers and thoughts are with you.

Vickie was my ideal as a consummate teacher; I've never taught with or known anyone to match her.I have known her 40 plus years; visited her various classrooms, starting with Indian Hills. Her love of books and authors was profound; enjoyed her company at the Cranes' Bed, Breakfast and Books summer events and others. Vickie never stopped learning, being curious, imparting her dazzling skills to students. Her longevity in the classroom gifted many more students than a teacher usually reaches. Kudos to Vickie and sympathy to all who loved her. Bill Anderson

WONDERFUL, DYNAMIC, WOMAN! RIP.

You will be missed so much . Rest in peace now. Cathy Noble

So sorry, Jan. Losing a Mom is so difficult. I know you have a treasure trove of great memories to remind you of how close you were.

Being an educator and having the same beliefs as Vickie, I have always admired her dedication and contributions to students and other educators. To Sandy, Pam, and Jan, what a proud legacy your mom leaves! My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you and your families. G

Mrs. Weiss,
"But You were a legend in your own time
A hero in the footlights
Playing tunes to fit your rhyme" (Carly Simon)

The Abrol family cannot appreciate enough for what you did to help set the foundation for our sons, Anish & Anuj. Your incredible work and passion for education will live on thru many of the generations you have touched!
Thank you Vickie for being a part of our lives.

Vickie was so kind and caring to me when my husband died. She gave me two Christmas ornaments to hang on my tree. That meant so much to me. It has been 25 yrs. since his passing and at every Christmas when I put my Christmas tree up I hang those ornaments and I'm reminded of the blessing she was to me at that time. I worked at some of the schools that she was at in Grand Blanc. She was awesome!!! It was a privilege to know her. Sandy Martz

So sorry Jan. Your mom impacted so many, but none so much as you and your family. A giant hug from Arizona.

Vickie was a true champion of kids. I have admired her from the first moment I met her. Her attitude and dedication are an inspiration to all of us. She made a significant impact.

She was incomparable. My beloved 5th grade teacher at Indian Hill. I will continue to think about her and the life lessons she instilled. Incomparable!!!

What a blessing! Vickie touched so many lives. Vickie was a lifelong learner and proud to be part of the GBCS school system. I had the honor of working with Vickie while I was principal at City School and Indian Hill Elementary. I learned something new with every interaction I had with Vickie. When my husband had an accident and ended up in ICU Vickie was one of the first people to reach out and offer support. My family will never forget her kindness. Thank you my friend for being you! You will be missed by many❤

Absolutely the Best teacher and and kindness person I have ever met. She taught both of my Granddaughters and they loved and respected her as the great person she always was. I know they are heartbroken to hear she has passed. Our loss will be Heavens gain! Jo&John Kekel

Always admired her! She was truly a great educator.

I will miss a dear friend.Donna Rash

Mrs. Weiss shaped my life. She taught me from 2001 to 2004, but affected me before and after. I believe many of my classmates will say the same!

She opened my eyes to the world through countless field trips, hands on projects, and extra curricular activities. Ill never forget her will to get things done properly, push for creativity, and most importantly, her caring demeanor. In hindsight, she impressioned these on me!

Mrs. Weiss fostered an amazing community at City School. Some of my greatest friends have come from these early days and many more classmates have gone on to do amazing things.

Rest in peace. We were lucky to have you

Sending so much love to this family. Our world is a better place because of Vickie. Her passion for high quality, hands-on education and for her students made her a treasure in the education system. No doubt, my early experiences and learning with her shaped the rest of my education journey and I will be forever grateful for that impact. I can only hope to serve the way that she did. Rest peacefully, Mrs. Weiss.

The news of Mrs. Weiss passing is so sad. Many memories have come up. One of those was when Mrs. Weiss took Pam and me on a trip to Washington DC when I was in 7 th grade. While she was at teaching conferences during the day, Pam and I toured the city by bus. She gave us freedom to tour alone which inspired us to learn and grow as we visited numerous museums and sites. I imagine she applied this same philosophy to how she taught her countless students. She was a true inspiration to all she encountered and will be missed by so many.

Vickie was an incredible teacher and friend. She would alway encourage her students and parents to do more than even they thought they could. Her selflessness, made all of her parents volunteers always step up to do what ever was needed, because she always did! Vickie you will always hold a very special place in our hearts! You will be missed by many and loved by all!

We are very sad to hear this. She was a caring & awesome teacher who went above and beyond for her students. My daughter said when we left mom I'll never forget her as my teacher. We moved out of state almost 2 yrs ago to northwestern WI and she still emailed my daughter to see how everything was going on in life & school. She will be missed by all.

Loved u like a motherrespected u beyond belief! May u Rest In Peace

I would not be the person I am today if it weren't for the teaching, coaching, and friendship I had with Mrs. Weiss. Going into my sophomore year at Grand Blanc High School, I think back on all the memories I had with her in and outside the classroom: Odyssey of the Mind. Breaking my arm. Math. Reading as a class. Geography Awareness. Young Inventors. Field trips. Chicago. Detroit. Seeing her at the library. Visiting with her at my brother's events. These are just a fraction of the priceless memories I have with her that I will treasure for all my life. I can't believe it's been 5 years since I was a student in that classroom.

Mrs. Weiss was the most amazing and influential teacher I've ever had and will ever have. I am certain I am not the only one who can say this. Over her decades and decades of teaching, she has touched generations of people in Grand Blanc and beyond. People know her as a strict teacher, but I have never met anyone else in my life with such a passion for teaching and love for the children and adults of Grand Blanc.

Mrs. Weiss. A teacher. A coach. A mentor. A friend. Grand Blanc will not be the same without you. You are dearly missed. By me, and the countless other people you've reached in your many years of life. On behalf of them and myself, I thank you. For everything.

It was always a joy to talk social studies with Vickie. She always had time for a hug and a chat about our classrooms and students. She loved teaching and Grand Blanc Schools. We are better for having her as a member of our teaching community.
Peace and love to Vickie, her family, and all the lives she touched.

Most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Vickie Weiss. She was beloved by her students, her colleagues and her friends in the legal community. I'm certain she loved all of you. Rest In Peace, dear lady.

God bless you and keep you. You will be missed by so many of us.

A wonderful teacher and person. I never had her as a teacher but she always asked how I was doing and how my career and life was going. I last saw her at the Perry dedication.

She will be missed.

Dr. Kevin Pollock

Shalom Vickie!

So saddened by this news. Mrs. Weiss made a huge impact on our lives. We will always carry cherished memories of fun times and much learning from the five years she guided our sons at City School.

Our heartfelt condolences to all who love her.

She passed from this world yesterday. Both our sons were shaped by this phenomenal educator at City School, Grand Blanc, MI. She literally touched hundreds and thousands of lives throughout her long illustrious career spanning over half a century. Thinking outside the box was her mantra. Those of us who believe in an education system where you send your kids to school and expect them to turn into a mature complete human being, depended on teachers like Mrs. Weiss. She was a completely different human being than most teachers who treated 4th and 5th graders like adults and spent every moment and every day of the school year teaching them how to grow up to be one. This world lost a gem, words can't describe her. We feel incredibly humbled and grateful that our kids were fortunate to be touched by such a hidden treasure. Our son Nazim wrote this essay last year titled "My favorite Michigan Hero" in a national essay competition and won it. When I shared his essay with her, she said, 'I read it, I loved it and I cried. Your son is very generous to write such a lovely essay about me'.

No Mrs. Weiss, the generous one was you. Our childrens' greatest gift in life was they got to have a genuine human being like you in their lives. The One who sent you here just took you back. But we are here to testify that you did such a wonderful job that very few teachers in the whole wide world could have accomplished. You served literally all over the world, teaching not just kids in Grand Blanc over half a century but kids from small villages in distant parts of Africa as well, who didn't even have the bare necessities of life. You taught our kids how to be global citizens, how to live a life not just for ourselves but for all people of this beautiful planet. People will be resurrected with whom they love. We love you and we will be together, again, forever in Paradise.

Lifes most persistent and urgent question is, What are you doing for others?' Martin Luther King JR.

This tiny planet that we live in is an insanely beautiful drop of cosmic dust suspended in the nothingness of space. It is indescribably stunning in its beauty and in its worth for two reasons: one is for the gorgeous places on Earth and the other for the most simple human beings amongst us that attract our mind, body, and soul to be near them.

In my short life of thirteen years on this planet, I may not have seen all the beautiful places. But I can say with all certainty in my heart, that I was blessed beyond imagination to come to the near proximity of such a personality. I did not have to travel across oceans and continents to seek her company. This treasure was waiting for me in my backyard, right here in Michigan. Her name is Vickie Weiss.

So whats the big deal about a teacher trying to do her job? That is where my hero shines. She comes to work every morning not to do just any job. Unlike other teachers, she invests her blood, sweat, and tears into the future of this country, one Michigan school day at a time. She taught us how to have kindness by introducing us to the Soup Kitchen of Flint and gratitude by showing us the streets of Detroit. But what makes her my hero is her affect in my life even after leaving her classroom.

I entered her class as someone who sat by himself at lunch, struggling to believe that there was happiness for him in life. One day she made me read my work out loud in front of the entire class. To my utter disbelief I realized that by doing so she took me from feeling insecure to being appreciated by my peers. Over the next few months I started to put more passion into my work. My hunger for acceptance was my inspiration to write more. For the first time I recognized that I could stand on my own two feet with my head held high and appreciate the value of everyone around me as well as myself.

You see to me a heros journey is one of a mythical nature. A hero is someone who turns all your failures into success. When I once made a blunder, she told me, We as human beings will always make mistakes, but the key to our success and growth is to learn from them. She was the first teacher ever who taught me that we are all precious; that we are all worthy of celebration; that we all have the capability to make this world a better place not just for ourselves but for all humanity through our relentless actions guided by love, molded with humility, touched by kindness, and wrapped with discipline.

Mrs. Weiss is my hero because she taught me that I can be one too.

Mrs. Weiss was one of the best teachers you could ever imagine, and I can say this personally because I was in her last class. Vickie was better than most teachers, she was more than a teacher, she was like a grandma to me. I wish I could have seen her one last time.

Vickie was such a passionate teacher. The world will miss her brilliance.

For the family of Vickie Weiss and especially Sandy:
You were blessed with two incredible parents who upheld the standard of giving, sharing and love. May your mother's memory and their memory be a blessing and forever a part of your lives.

Sincerest condolences to all. VICKIE taught 2 of my grandsons. We were both teachers to younger children and shared a love of children and teaching.
May her memory forever be a blessing.

Incredible lady. No doubt the BIGGEST and MOST SIGNIFICANT person who positively impacted my 2 son's academic lives. Such a loss to all who learned from her and all who would have. Peace to you Mrs. Weiss. Peace

I am so sorry for all of you. Your mother was a real force of nature , and so much fun to work with! She will be missed by many. Much love, Laura Olson