CEA President Jeff Leake throws out the first pitch at the Yard Goats’ CEA Teacher Appreciation Day game yesterday.
CEA President Jeff Leake kicked off Teacher Appreciation Day at the Yard Goats baseball game last night by throwing out the ceremonial first pitch. Hundreds of teachers and their families, wearing CEA buttons that say “Teachers Love Kids,” were on hand to watch Leake take to the mound at the second of three CEA member appreciation days this baseball season.
Many were happy to see Leake, wearing his Red for Ed shirt, on the field representing educators not just in Connecticut, but across the country.
“Teachers are a vital part of our community, and it is greatly appreciated when we are recognized for all the good work we do,” said Granby teacher Christina Fleming who attended the game with her family and friends.
Teachers packed the stands at last night’s Yard Goats home game.
“Watching Jeff throw out the first pitch was very exciting and makes us realize that there are many people who respect educators,” said Bloomfield teacher Glenn Spencer.
“We have a great relationship with the Yard Goats,” said Leake. “They understand the vital role teachers play in our society and are very willing to be part of our community and support teachers.”
As a CEA member benefits partner, the Yard Goats offer discounted tickets to CEA teachers and special recognition at Teacher Appreciation Days at the ballpark.
Bridgeport teacher and CEA Member Benefits Commission Chair Ana Batista has attended all of the CEA Teacher Appreciation Days at the ballpark.
“This is a wonderful member benefit,” she said. “It’s a great opportunity to get out, enjoy some baseball with colleagues, friends, and family, watch fireworks, and of course save money by purchasing tickets through the CEA Member Benefits program.”
Young and old came out to show their support for Connecticut teachers and players.
It was a special night for East Hampton teacher Kristen Keska and her family.
“We’re celebrating my dad’s 60th birthday and wanted to bring him to the game,” said Keska. “As East Hampton’s membership chair, I always share CEA member benefit deals and Teacher Appreciation Days with our members, and I am happy to see some of my colleagues here enjoying the game.”
For Emily DiMuro, a first year teacher in Lebanon, it was her first Yard Goats game. “I love baseball and saw the CEA Teacher Appreciation Day and discount tickets in the CEAgo, so I bought three tickets and brought my boyfriend and my mother, who is a retired teacher.”
When asked about his first pitch, Leake responded, “I just wanted to get it over the plate, and I accomplished that, but more importantly, it was an opportunity to represent and acknowledge all of the hard-working teachers across the state who have dedicated their lives to our students.”
Unfortunately, the Yard Goats lost to the New Hampshire Fisher Cats by a score of 3 to 1.
The next CEA Teacher Appreciation Day is Friday, August 24, at 7:05 PM vs. the Trenton Thunder. So far, more than 150 teachers have purchased tickets, and fewer than 50 tickets remain, so get yours before they sell out. Click here to purchase tickets or visit cea.org/mb.
