Editor's Note

Season of Giving

Leona Hiraoka, Editor-in-Chief

I can remember every baby gift bestowed upon my children—the stuffed leopard, the (really big) baby booties, the piggy finger puppets—and even more, the people who were kind enough to give them. Gift-giving creates a special connection. So while some people may see West Virginia teacher Lisa Cox as a clutter-fiend—in 20 years she's never thrown away a single gift from a student (yup, see page 37)—I see a woman who's connected. Her house may be crowded, but her heart is full too.

This holiday season, the traditionally valued gifts of life and love and family have been elevated after the tragic losses from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. As part of the legions of donors and volunteers, NEA members have been giving aid to fellow educators and students. Houston school counselor Bonnie Stover helped displaced students like kindergartner Sir Henri (pictured, far left). Louisiana member Lena Alleman took in a displaced family after Katrina, and when Rita struck Alleman's area, the family in turn offered aid to her and her husband.

NEA has created the NEA Hurricane Relief Fund, pledging $1 million to go directly to educators and their students. To contribute to the Fund, and to read more on how educators are helping in the relief effort, visit the Web at www.nea.org/disasterrelief. And see our story on page 40.

And as the holidays approach and your students come down the halls or up the bus stairs bearing gifts, you're bound to get some memorable items. It's up to you whether to keep them for 20 years. But if you'd like others to see what gifts students can bring, post a story at www.nea.org/neatoday , and tell the world about your connections.

Photo: Sam Pierson