Donna Mace recently died, unexpectedly, and the public schools of the United States and Florida lost a dear friend.
Sandy Stenoff wrote this tribute to Donna, who taught elementary school students for 35 years, then became an outspoken activist for public schools and against the overuse of standardized testing. Of course, she was a BAT.
She concluded:
Donna Mace made the world a better place by being a force for good. She was a class act, approaching life’s challenges with courage, grace, humility, humor, and optimism, We all benefited from Donna’s wisdom, gained from her experience as a lifelong educator and a life well lived. She really was the best of us.
To the Mace family: Our thoughts are with you now and we send you love, gratitude, and a wish that your fondest memories will bring you peace and comfort.
I am sadened that we have lost Donna Mace. Many were inspired by her and will follow in her footsteps, never abandoning the struggle to do what is right for children. I hereby add her name to the honor roll, a list of distinguished fighters for public schools and children.
Diane Ravitch's blog 
Ex post facto admiration from this teacher, and prayers for Donna and her family. Donna your efforts will be continued and will be remembered as inspirations to those of us following you. (Thank you, Sandy and Diane, for the powerful words.)
RIP – Donna
Incredible tribute to an incredible and dedicated educator.
Yesterday, I went in to sub at my local school here in town. And what struck me was, wow, there are a lot great people working here and wonderful students.
Being in one classroom, in one school, I think it’s easy to lose track of the big picture.
Hence, one of the real services that this blog provides.
And, we all benefit from reading a story like this about Donna Mace, who went way above and beyond. To sustain that sort of dedication over the course of a long career is a big deal.