Giving thanks to educators

Niki Patel, Staff Writer

How are you showing your teachers how much you appreciate their efforts? Teacher Appreciation Week offers principals, students, and parents a special opportunity to recognize the hard work teachers do all year long. Teachers are real life superheroes. They educate, innovate, encourage, and support. Every day they touch the lives of millions of children. Teachers give us so much. A boost of confidence when we really need one. Extra help when we are having trouble. A welcoming presence when everything else seems out of control. It is important to recognize the critical role they play in educating and shaping the future leaders of our country. These lasting contributions that teachers make on our lives are celebrated on the week of May 2–6.

When I think about my journey through elementary school, middle school, and high school, I remember my teachers more than I do the classes I took or the books I read. In particular, there are a few teachers whose lessons I still carry with me today. I will be forever grateful to these special teachers in my past. Teachers show how to appreciate the beauty behind a subject. Not only do they influence our academic progress, but their impact extends far beyond the classroom. They inspire us to think differently about the world and set us on the path to where we are today.

This is Teacher Appreciation Week, a time for all of us to show our gratitude to educators who influenced our lives and for the thousands of others who continue to nurture and develop students every day. Their selflessness and ability to motivate exemplify why teaching is not only one of the hardest professions, but one of the most rewarding as well. It is relevant to show teachers how thankful we are for all that they do not just during Teacher Appreciation Week, but every week before and after. During this special time, take a moment to pause and reflect on the educators who have made a unique imprint on your life.