Being an educator is one of the most important jobs in our society, but it often comes with many trials and tribulations. Luckily, there’s one day that is set aside to appreciate the teachers across the nation. There are several ways that someone can show their thankfulness and how grateful they are for their educator. Let’s dive into the real value of a teacher and what you can do to show that real appreciation.
What is Teacher Appreciation Day?
Every year, the first Tuesday in the first full week of May is National Teacher Appreciation Day. In addition, some even observe National Teacher Appreciation Week, which is May 8-12. The occasion is set aside to thank the educators who are so dedicated to their job expecting little in return, aside from intrinsic satisfaction.
According to the National Education Association (NEA), appreciating teachers means saying “‘thank you” this week, and throughout the year, to the extraordinary educators who work tirelessly to help all students learn, grow, and fulfill their potential.”
In 2022, NEA conducted a survey of teachers from across the nation to share what would mean the most to them and reflect appreciation. The answers went beyond small, kind gestures such as snacks, rewards, discounts, and coupons to focus more on investing in the students that they teach every day. Responders and school staff listed things such as work-life balance and more resources for students, like updated textbooks and safe learning environments in the United States.
Sure, educators love the little tokens, freebies, and gifts of their students’ appreciation, but National Teacher Appreciation Day offers a great opportunity to think about the bigger picture.
How to Show Appreciation on Teacher Day
Showing appreciation is more important than ever as our country’s youth faced the loss of about 35% of a normal school year’s worth of learning due to the pandemic. The effects are still being felt, even three years later. In addition, public schools struggle to remain safe environments catered to learning and growth.
K-12 educator salary is widely variable, with Mississippi paying the least amount at $45k per year . On the other end of the spectrum, Maryland pays their teachers about $93k per year . For those instructors in states where the pay is lower, it can be hard to feel fairly compensated. This requires teachers to be even more dedicated to their students, something that is certainly worth being grateful for. But what can we do for teachers to make them feel justly appreciated in a way that matters?
The truth is that different people have the power to show appreciation in different ways. For example, administrators can make meaningful changes because they are in a unique position of power. Administrators shouldn’t take excellent performance for granted, and should instead work to showcase teachers who go above and beyond. Find ways to make Teacher Appreciation Day special for everyone. In the meantime, administrators should always advocate for higher salaries and other long-term investments.
During COVID-19, parents gained a renewed sense of respect for teachers as children were learning from home. Caretakers can work to show their appreciation for teachers in multiple ways. Parents don’t have to do anything extreme to show their thanks—even a meaningful note or treat can go a long way. Find out what a teacher likes and put together a Teacher Appreciation Day care package that is made especially for them.
There are many ways to support teachers, who often work overtime without pay or buy classroom supplies with their own money. According to Adopt-a-Classroom, teachers spend an average of $750 on supplies , so donating some things for the classroom can be a big deal. Some public schools have volunteer programs, which allow community members to come and offer a helping hand, and this is another great way to show thanks.
What it’s like to be a modern-day teacher
In times of national uncertainty, American educators held their ground and showed incredible resilience. Often working with shrinking budgets and anxious parents, teachers hopped on Zoom during the pandemic and did their best to make up for increasing learning loss once back in the classroom. The reality is that being a teacher is much different than it used to be, but the goal is the same: helping students be the best that they can be.
The education profession, though extremely rewarding at times, is a notoriously difficult career path. Teacher burnout is a serious issue in America. Adopt-a-Classroom lists a few reasons why turnover is so common in many K-12 schools:
81% of teachers say that their workload has increased.
35% mentioned that they received a smaller budget for school supplies.
82% reported having used their own money to purchase basic school supplies.
The landscape of teaching requires more dedication from educators, and it seems like salaries in most states are not rising to meet the increasing workload that teachers must bear. Not every school district is the same, and teachers who work in areas of greater poverty and with more disadvantaged students often get burnt out quicker than in privileged schools.
Making a meaningful gesture
Despite the hardships that teachers face in their careers, many educators continue to show up every day to educate future generations. Teacher Appreciation Day is the perfect opportunity to make a genuine gesture of gratitude, regardless of who you are. From a business owner or parent to a local politician, showing thanks with even a small gift can make a big difference.
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