American Education Week, an annual observance honoring students, educators, and parents, is taking place November 18 through 22 to highlight the need for every community to be able to provide a quality public education for every student. It’s the perfect week to take the pledge and sign on to be a Champion for Public Education.
“As educators, we see firsthand the challenges our students face in the classroom and beyond,” says CEA President Kate Dias. “CEA’s Champions for Public Education Campaign is an effort to bring together parents, community leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders so that we can raise our collective voices to support students, strengthen public schools, and create a brighter future for every child. We know that an investment in public education reaps generational rewards.”
The campaign addresses growing concerns about challenges facing students, particularly mental health issues. A CEA survey found a growing number of behavioral changes in students that are not being addressed because there are not enough mental health supports in our schools.
Teachers responding to the survey reported an increase in the number of behavioral changes in their students, including
- Increased stress and anxiety (89%)
- More distractions (83%)
- Increased aggression or dysregulated behavior (82%)
- Less concentration (82%)
- Increased absenteeism (70%)
- Increased depression or suicidal ideation (54%)
“Becoming an education champion brings all of us together—parents, educators, businesses, and the broader community—to advocate for stronger mental health supports and educational resources, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive,” adds Dias.
Each year, American Education Week takes place the week prior to the Thanksgiving holiday. It was first celebrated in 1921, with NEA and the American Legion as co-sponsors, and grew out of a national concern over illiteracy. After more than 100 years, the original goal of American Education Week—to generate public awareness and support for education—continues today.
American Education Week honors students’ determination to learn; recognizes the professionalism and dedication of teachers, support staff, and other educators; thanks parents and members of the community who help students succeed; and rededicates the community at large to quality public education for every student.
