As many of you know Sra. Ponte, the Tiverton High School Portuguese teacher was put out on paid leave. To many of us this was unexpected and heartbreaking to hear. As a student of Sra. Ponte for the past 3 years, I can say she is 100% dedicated to her students. She made learning easy to comprehend and made failing hard to do. If a student had a hard time understanding a concept, she’d make time for them after school, helped them 1 on 1 or even make an easier lesson plan for that student. She would also self critique herself every lesson plan, add things to help the students the following year, or take out things that confused the students to help better educate them. She was always a listening ear and took all questions, comments and concerns seriously. She spent hours on her end making fun assignments and card games for her students to help prepare for quizzes or even just for better understandment. Sra Ponte, knew each of her students weaknesses and strengths. She understood students had bad days, instead of making it worse, she’d help. She provided make up quizzes, tests and assignments to those who did not complete them, or to those who failed. She had hopes for every single one of her students and did not seek failure in anyone of them. Teaching a language is already hard, but she made it seem so easy. She always fought for her students and for her I will return the favor. I know she will benefit each and everyone of her students. I’m asking for everyone’s help, just please sign. Thank you.