Today begins National Teacher Appreciation Week in recognition of all that is outstanding about public education in America and in Connecticut. Teacher Appreciation Week honors excellent teaching and learning. Each day of the school year our students come to us with a wealth of experiences, an enthusiasm for learning, and a genuine respect for education.
Throughout the year, anyone entering our school buildings and our classrooms observes genuinely dedicated, highly qualified, and infinitely caring teachers who make meaningful connections between teaching and learning. I once heard a teacher say, “Teaching is not what I do. It is who I am.” This statement had a profound effect on me for, I believe, it speaks directly to you, Connecticut teachers. In Connecticut, teaching is not what we do, it is who we are.
Don and I believe that our state is a state of great school districts. This belief is shared by students, staff, parents, and so many members of our communities. Unfortunately, in these times of anti-teacher, anti-union prophets for profits, we don’t hear nearly as often as we should about how much we are indeed appreciated.
In Connecticut, we all work together and share responsibility for the success of our students. Therefore, we all celebrate and take pride in their accomplishments. Their success is our success. As school communities, we have reached this point through collaboration, cooperation, and communication. We are committed to maintaining this positive working relationship with all members of our communities.
In Connecticut, every single day should be Teacher Appreciation Day because we always have cause for celebration.
I am proud to be a teacher. I am proud to stand on the shoulders of all those who came before me. And I am proud of each and every one of you.
Stand proudly, and accept the gratitude – you deserve it!
Know that you are appreciated!!!!!!
Sincerely,
