Consider
all the things teachers do on a daily basis: plan curriculum, utilize varying
teaching styles to reach all the children in the classroom, explain information
(often repeatedly until all the students understand), assign and grade
homework, deal with misbehavior, prepare and grade tests, meet with parents,
problem solve to help kids reach their potential, reach out to families from
all backgrounds and cultures, counsel kids when they are hurting, be a mentor
and role model, prepare report cards, and continue their own education through classes
and in-service trainings. Teachers are called to be patient, approachable,
innovative, energetic and caring. They are the unsung heroes in our children’s
lives. Teachers play an enormous difference in our children’s development and
deserve to be recognized for their efforts.
Since
1984, National PTA has designated the first full week in May as PTA Teacher
Appreciation Week, a special time to honor the men and women who lend their
passion and skills to educating our children. You can plan to recognize the
efforts of the teachers at your school during National PTA Teacher Appreciation
Week on May 6-10. National PTA developed a toolkit of recognition resources
including customizable certificates of appreciation, a social media avatar and
badge, graphic for an e-card, a sample news release outlining ways to celebrate
educators that can be customized for local unit outreach, web banner and print
advertisement and more! They are available for public download at National PTA Thank A Teacher. In
addition, the National PTA has launched a Pinterest account with five
teacher-related pin boards! Have fun as you recognize and encourage these vital
individuals in your school communities.
