With the passing of Barton Tumlinson, the Principal of Oliver Elementary School, a good friend and colleague, it has certainly given me the opportunity to reflect on many things.

Barton and I worked closely together as an administrative team at SESS in Keremeos and came to this district at the same time, five and a half years ago. We car pooled together nearly every day filling our time with long discussions. It has become very real to me that there are times in all our lives where we have difficulty seeing what is truly important.

There is a tendency to get distracted by little issues that, in the big scheme of things, are really not that significant. I am reminded now of the importance of gratitude, kindness, family and friendship.

As educators, we are part of the selected few to have the opportunity to make a difference in student’s lives and work every day with such wonderful young people. Our community is so supportive of our school and our staff, and we come to work every day in an incredible atmosphere in the amazing Southern Okanagan, one of the nicest places in the world.

There is so much to be thankful for that it is important not to lose focus of the gifts we have in our lives. Barton will be truly missed in this community and by our education system. His contributions will live on. Have a Happy Valentine’s Day.

Give your loved ones kindness they deserve on Saturday as well as every other day this year.

Marcus Toneatto