Nancy Nordenson's dream came true last year, at the age of 46, when her first book, "Just Think" (Baker Books, 2004), was published. Holding a "hot off the press" copy in her hand, one of her first instincts was to find her fifth-grade teacher and thank him for teaching her to write. Though it took a bit of sleuthing, she eventually reached him. Nordenson told him about the book and that his classroom back in 1968 at Northport Elementary School had started her on a lifelong path as a writer. Now retired, he responded that his career as a teacher and principal had been long and wonderful, but to get such a call from a former student was truly a highlight.

As your kids wind up the school year, encourage them to make a card or write a poem or special note of appreciation to give to their teachers and coaches. Use this opportunity to think about memories of your own school days, too. Was there a teacher who helped shape who you are today? Share with your child your recollections and the impact that teacher had on your life, then join your kids and write your own "thank-you" note. It's never too late to thank a teacher!

Here are more favorite "thank yous" that teachers appreciate:

• Gift certificates from a bookstore. Or, donate a new book to the school library in honor of the teacher. The school librarian can recommend titles to guide you.

• Note cards and postage stamps

• A blooming garden plant

Tip for classroom teachers and home-school parents: Minneapolis fifth-grade teacher Susan Bell keeps minds sharp up until the last hour of the school year. Her final class assignment? "Ponder and describe the exclamation points of the school year."

Once the last bus leaves the parking lot, Mrs. Bell suggests that teachers take a quiet moment alone to read the essays and enjoy the candid and often humorous observations of a year's work through the eyes of the students. Keep the essays in a binder as a keepsake of the year.

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Write Donna with your questions and ideas at www.donnasday.com. Donna's latest book, "Donna Erickson's Fabulous Funstuff for Families," is available in bookstores nationwide. © Donna Erickson Dist. by King Features Syndicate