This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

At the grocery store the other day I saw a woman who looked familiar. I couldn't figure out why. After she approached me and introduced herself, though, I realized that she was my son's third-grade teacher.

My son is now 21 years old. I was amazed that after all these years, and after having so many other students, she remembered my son's name and recognized me as his mother.

Today I pay tribute to all the teachers who make a difference in the lives of our children. They make a difference because they care. They work hard, in difficult circumstances, often with low pay, to try and help our children.

Thank you to all the good teachers in this state who make a difference. As a parent, it is greatly appreciated.

Melanie Tayler Syracuse