I read with great pleasure and pride the story about Alyssa Mandel, The Out-of-Door Academy’s librarian/belly-dancer.

I felt pride because I am the parent of a former student of ODA, and it speaks to the character of that fine school that the unusual talents of their librarian would be celebrated.

My daughter received the necessary tools to sail through college as an “A” student and become accepted as a graduate student at Florida State University in international studies. That was more than four years ago.

Through our daughter’s experience, our impression of the school was that faculty and staff placed the emphasis on academic excellence, taking responsibility for one’s actions and embracing individuality. I am so happy to see they have not deviated.

Janet Mishner
Lakewood Ranch

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