THANK
ALABAMA TEACHERS Dr. Eric Mackey
Alabama State Superintendent of Education For the last couple of years, the Alabama State Department of Education, along with the Office of Governor Kay Ivey, has acknowledged “Thank Alabama Teachers” week as an observation that puts a specific spotlight on the work and commitment of Alabama educators. This year, we want to extend that observation throughout the entire month of November, as we continue the tradition of setting aside time to say a simple, “thank you” to our teachers. Alabama teachers are the drivers of our state’s economy, the protectors of our state’s most valuable resource, and the preparers of our state’s future. The sacrifice and dedication that teachers show in Alabama classrooms every day is invaluable. Still, this recognition is but a small token of our appreciation for the countless hours that teachers have committed to the cause of an educated workforce and society. Too often overlooked, educators keep the gears turning on the economic engine of our nation. More than just reading, writing, and arithmetic; teachers impact our students in many ways and often set the tone for the experiences our children have throughout their formative years in school. In fact, although teachers teach the 14
standards and make sure students are knowledgeable about the disciplines they must know to be successful after high school, often it’s the advice, encouragement, support, and guidance that teachers provide that impacts their lives as much as anything that comes from a book. While there is no amount of monetary compensation that could adequately pay teachers for the difference their work makes, I do encourage everyone to be intentional about recognizing, supporting, and thanking Alabama teachers. Often a kind word or a friendly gesture is enough to make a teacher feel appreciated. I encourage parents to take a moment to reach out to your child’s teacher and tell them how much the nurturing environment their child learns in is appreciated. Social media is a predominate form of communication these days. I encourage everyone to take to social media to express how much you appreciate your local school and the people who make that school run every day.
Winter Issue 2023