The Dowagiac school community has had to say goodbye to a valuable educator.  Bonnie Latourette has been a teacher for 26 years.

During that time she taught in a variety of classroom situations.

She taught fifth and sixth grade language arts and math, as well as kindergarten through fifth grade art.

Bonnie taught in three of the four elementary schools in Dowagiac, and ended her career at Kincheloe and Patrick Hamilton Elementary schools, teaching art.  In the span of her career, it is safe to say she positively impacted the lives of hundreds of students, families, and colleagues.

It would be impossible to relate all of the ways and times Mrs. Latourette made a difference for someone.

Mrs. Latourette knew how to bring out the best in her students.

Her talent, and expertise in instruction ignited the creativity and imagination in students as they learned about art.

The countless hours of preparation, outside of her school day duties, led to students being able to experience art in many unique ways.

Mrs. Latourette recognized individual student’s talents and could help them turn those talents into beautiful art work.

Just a few of the many interesting projects that evolved under her direction included the mask-making process fifth grade students were able to experience, the weaving of purses or pouches and the creation and building of marionette puppets.

Masterpieces from Mrs. Latourette’s classes lined the hallways, prompting students to point out their work with pride.

The range and variety of technique, content, and medium showcased the depth of Mrs. Latourette’s knowledge and talent in art.

Mrs. Latourette is never one to speak of her own personal challenges; instead, she greeted her students daily with a smile, a positive attitude and a caring word.  She shared the same optimism with her colleagues. Bonnie’s generosity of spirit went far beyond the school walls, which is evidenced in the emotional support she provided to so many friends with her meaningful actions and words, especially in their troubled times.

Bonnie Latourette has been and always will be a difference maker.

She will continue to touch the lives of everyone she encounters, young and old.  The Dowagiac school family will truly miss seeing her daily.

We wish for her retirement to be as full and rich as her career has been.