Gov. Kay Ivey, in collaboration with the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE), earlier this week issued a formal proclamation launching the second annual “Thank Alabama Teachers Week.”
The recognition was created in 2020 in an effort to express gratitude to Alabama educators for their vast contributions to the state.
ALSDE Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey outlined the need to set aside one week out of the year to ensure teachers are aware that their efforts are appreciated.
“Teachers are too often unsung heroes. And while they painstakingly nurture our children, cultivate young minds and invest in students on every level, many times they go without being told ‘thank you’ for answering their important life calling,” said Mackey. “This week is meant to focus on giving that much-deserved gratitude to teachers in various ways across the state.”
Communities, businesses and individuals are encouraged to participate in the recognition. According to the announcement, ALSDE launched an online hub of shareable material which includes social media graphics to express public gratitude to Alabama’s educators.
Mackey added, “We would like others to follow suit in showering our teachers with gratitude. We urge you to use this traditional season of Thanksgiving to recognize Alabama educators as added blessings to our lives and invite you to do your part in expressing thanks for what past, present and future teachers mean to us all.”
As part of Thank Alabama Teachers Week, ALSDE has partnered with influencers around the state to share personal stories of teachers who have impacted their lives. One such noteworthy influencer is star Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Malachi Moore, who thanked his mother, Penny Moore, a teacher at Paine Elementary in Trussville.
“I’d just like to thank my mom for all the things that she’s done and for her being a great example of love, hard work and dedication for her students – and both me and my brother,” expressed Moore.
Thank you, Alabama Teachers!#ThankALTeachers #WeTeachAL pic.twitter.com/vaotVINEeO
— Alabama State Department of Education (@AlabamaAchieves) November 17, 2021
ALSDE encourages local businesses and community organizations to become involved in the effort by spreading the word in public meetings, newsletters, personal calls or emails. The department also advises those willing to donate classroom supplies to local schools, as well as write and send notes to teachers expressing appreciation of their work in educating local youth.
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
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