As educators across Connecticut face continued challenges—including low salaries, stress and burnout, a lack of respect, and a diminishing workforce—CEA today launched a new public awareness campaign to highlight how, despite these constant struggles, teachers continue to go above and beyond, driven by a commitment to meet their students’ needs and help them succeed and thrive.
“This campaign shines a light on the incredible commitment both in and out of the classroom that teachers bring to their students daily,” says CEA President Kate Dias. “Our educators are unsung heroes who make a profound impact on students’ lives. They identify challenges, provide personalized attention, create inclusive environments where every child feels seen, valued, and supported, and often spend time outside the classroom attending their students’ plays, events, and games.”
The campaign, titled Teachers Go the Extra Mile for Their Students Every Day, shares moving stories from Connecticut parents and grandparents about the extraordinary dedication of teachers who, despite overwhelming obstacles, go to great lengths to meet the diverse needs of their students.
“Our teachers really get to know our kids, and it makes all the difference,” says Wethersfield parent Shaun Green, who is featured in the ad with his children, Brayden, Dylan, and Jordan.
Norwich parent Jade Perry, whose children Via and Sukey are on the autism spectrum and appeared in the campaign, says, “Teachers recognize my children’s individual learning styles and create tailored lessons that make a real difference.”
“Teachers identified my children’s challenges and took the time to ensure they felt truly included and understood,” says Berlin parent Kara Satalino, who participated in the campaign along with two of her children, Gabriel and Cecelia.
Several Connecticut teachers are featured in the campaign, including Newington Teachers of the Year and Connecticut Teacher of the Year finalists Jennifer Rodriguez and Jeff Helming, Ashley Beal (Hamden), Michael Green (Wallingford), Antwanette Serrano (Newington), Devin Van Patten (Avon), and Christina Green (CREC). Their statements highlight why they teach, go the extra mile, and share a commitment to student success.
“Every student is the future waiting to unfold. This is why I teach,” says Rodriguez.
“I teach to ensure every student finds their unique path to success,” says Beal.
“Every student deserves a bright future. This is why I teach,” adds Helming.
The campaign underscores the vital partnership between teachers and families in supporting students’ individual needs.
Maria Anthony shared how her grandson Kyon is flourishing under his second-grade teacher’s guidance in Wallingford. “Mr. Green takes extra time to give Kyon the attention and support he needs, and that has improved his confidence and his love of learning.”
Waterford parent Marissa Nakaoka’s son Wyatt was born with a limb difference and is thankful to all his teachers for going the extra mile to ensure he never feels sad about being a bit different. “His teachers helped students in his class understand that not everyone looks exactly the same, and they read books to help them accept and not fear Wyatt’s differences.”
“This campaign is about giving voice to the experiences of families and teachers who see the transformative power of education up close,” stresses Dias. “Our teachers are more than instructors; they are mentors, advocates, and allies. Throughout this campaign, we invite parents to share their stories about how teachers go the extra mile to help their children.”
Dias encourages the public to champion the work teachers do for Connecticut’s students and public education by taking the pledge to be Education Champions.
“Being a champion means we all work together to engage, advocate, and urge our elected leaders to ensure adequate funding for our public schools, equitable access to quality education, and policies that support our fantastic students and teachers across the state. Every student deserves this opportunity, and we must all come together to make it a reality.”
Click here to join in supporting teachers, students, and public education.
