My husband and I have been blessed with three children. The two oldest boys have graduated from high school, and our youngest daughter will be a senior next year.

Our kids attended Trinity Lutheran Elementary School and Heartland Lutheran High School. I cannot say enough positive things about these two schools. Not only did our kids receive an excellent education and had many opportunities such as in sports, but they were reminded daily that they have a Savior. When they were busy with the things kids busy themselves with, Christ was never left out.

Our daughter told us that these schools have been so much more than a school to her. They have been like a second family.

We have invested a lot of money over the years in our kid's education, but it was a great Investment. If I could do it all over again they would attend these same two schools.

I hope the people of Grand Island consider these two schools when making the choice of education for their children. It has been a most rewarding experience for us. These schools always have kids that need tuition assistance. If you are looking for a charitable organization to contribute to, your contribution to these schools would give kids an opportunity to attend a school where they can belong, and not just attend.

Mary Liess

3110 Midway Road

Child abuse can be prevented

Each year, more than 3 million children in the United States are reported abused or neglected, according to the statistics released by Prevent Child Abuse American.

While it is important to take note of these statistics and learn from them, it is just as important maybe even more so to prevent abuse and neglect from happening in the first place. With April being Child Abuse Prevention Month, we all need to be aware of children who are living with abuse as part of their daily lives.

Here are a few simple ways each of us can prevent child abuse and neglect:

n Be a nurturing parent. Children need to know they are special and loved. Educate yourself about a child's development process so you have reasonable expectations about what your child can and cannot do.

nHelp a friend, neighbor or relative. Being a parent isn't easy. Someone you know may be struggling with his or her parenting responsibilities. Offer a helping hand.

* Help yourself. When the big and little problems of everyday life pile up to the point that you feel overwhelmed and out of control, take a time out. Don't take it out on your child. Take a deep breath, turn on some music. Know where you can turn for some help.

If your baby cries it can be frustrating, especially when nothing you do seems to help. Learn what to do if your baby won't stop crying. BUT NEVER SHAKE A BABY!!!!

Get involved. Advocate for services to help families.

* Report suspected abuse and neglect. Keeping children safe is the responsibility of every adult in our community. If you have reason to believe a child has been or may be harmed, call your local law enforcement.

The Heartland Family Visitation Center in Grand Island is here to help bridge between parents struggling with visitation issues. If you would like to know more about supervised visitation or supervised exchanges, call the Heartland Family Visitation Center at 385-5665. There is no fee for our services.

Cody Van Winkle, Director, Heartland Family Visitation Center, 204 N. Locust St.