Pictured are Fletcher PTA President, Beth Lanphere, members of the Foster Family: David, Barbara and Keith Foster and members of the Proctor Family: Michael, Carm and Christopher Proctor. Submitted photo

Fletcher Elementary School recently held its fifth annual Playground Memorial Sign Ceremony during a school-wide event.

Kimberly S. Foster and Lauren E. Proctor’s names were added to its Playground Memorial sign. Their names are two of 12 that exist on the sign to commemorate individuals who have worked at, or have some significant tie to, Fletcher Elementary School.

Mrs. Foster was a paraprofessional for many years at Bush and Fletcher Elementary Schools, helping to raise money for the playground for UPK students. Ms. Proctor, a 2012 Jamestown High School graduate, was a frequent substitute teacher within the building in recent years, covering all grade levels and special areas when needed.

Both women were noted as being kind individuals. Ms. Proctor was “The Spirit of Kindness” as stated by Fletcher teacher, Teresina Isabella, when introducing Mrs. Lisa Certo-Card to the podium to speak on her behalf.

“Lauren was my student at Rogers Elementary School and she was also a substitute teacher for me at Fletcher,” said Mrs. Certo-Card. “How lucky I was to have her both as a student and a friend. In both of these roles, she had the most positive attitude, never complaining and always doing whatever needed to be done.”

Fletcher teacher, Jennifer Schrader, said a few words about Mrs. Foster.

“Mrs. Foster wanted all of us to know that life is scary, but don’t ever let that stop you, and always trust you’ve got what it takes to get through anything. If she were here, she would want each of us to be kind, choose optimism, and take time for each and every person you encounter. Mrs. Foster proved how much that mattered.”