A message from CEA President Kate Dias and Vice President Joslyn DeLancey
As we enter this season of thanksgiving, we want to begin by expressing our deep gratitude for everything you do for your students, your schools, and your communities. This time of year encourages us to pause, reflect, and recognize the people who make a meaningful difference in our lives—and at the top of that list are the educators who show up every day with dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment.
While you may not always see the full reach of your influence, your work resonates far beyond the classroom. Students feel valued because of you. Families feel supported because of you. Communities grow stronger because of you. The lessons you teach—both academic and personal—shape identities, build confidence, and leave lasting impressions that echo across generations. What may seem like a small, ordinary moment in your day can become a cherished memory that helps a student feel seen and understood.
As you gather with loved ones this week, please remember that gratitude for your work extends far beyond your own table. Students, parents, colleagues, and former students—from across Connecticut and beyond—are giving thanks for the difference you’ve made in their lives. Through our advocacy and public campaigns, we continue to highlight the essential work you do, but no spotlight can fully capture the countless quiet acts of care and professionalism you bring to your roles.
Teaching is a calling that changes lives, yet it can also be demanding in ways that few truly understand. We hope this long weekend gives you the chance to rest, recharge, and reconnect with the people and traditions that bring you joy. Taking time for yourself is not only well deserved—it’s essential.
Thank you for your commitment, your resilience, and the extraordinary impact you have on your students and colleagues. It is our privilege to represent you and to stand beside you in this work.
Wishing you a peaceful, restorative, and joy-filled Thanksgiving.
