Dear Editor:

The pre-schoolers of Cherokee County lost a true champion on Monday night.

Kathy Prevatte Kirby, pre-school coordinator for special education in our school district, was a caring and dedicated colleague and friend. She truly cared about all the pre-schoolers she served.

Her office was across the hall from mine and I could often hear her phone conversations as she tracked down the preschoolers who had left the school district. As she followed up on their whereabouts, I could always hear the relief and happiness in her voice when she would find out that they were enrolled in a program that would encourage their growth.

Kathy was the kind of co-worker who would do anything for you, or give you anything she had if you needed it. Her infectious laugh would always bring smiles to our faces.

Kathy had a good, sweet, heart; her light shined brightly on those around her. We'll miss you in our office family, Kathy. And I'm certain that those pre-schoolers and their families will miss all you did for them as well.

But, knowing you, you'll still be watching over them, smiling and encouraging them as they grow.
Nita E. Harris, NCSP
School Psychologist II
Cherokee County School District
Gaffney, S.C.