ALEXANDRIA, Va., (May 9, 2017)—Teachers deliver so much to students—inspiration, knowledge and motivation. To thank, support and elevate teachers and the important contributions they make, National PTA encourages everyone to recognize and celebrate educators nationwide during Teacher Appreciation Week (May 8-12) and on National Teacher Day (May 9).
“We encourage everyone to join us in celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week by thanking the teachers in their lives,” said Laura Bay, president of National PTA. “I’ve seen firsthand the profound difference teachers make in the well-being and long-term success of students. Teachers inspire a lifelong love of learning and help guide children’s futures. It’s important that we honor our teachers, who lend their passion and skills to educating our nation’s children.”
During Teacher Appreciation Week, recognize and give thanks to the teachers by:
- Sharing a photo or story of a teacher on social media using #ThankATeacher
- Sending heartfelt letters, cards and messages of appreciation
- Creating artwork, poems and video messages
- Recognizing teachers with awards
- Decorating schools and teacher’s lounges
- Hosting surprise assemblies and other events
- Volunteering in classrooms to help teachers
This week, National PTA will announce the winners of the #ThankATeacher Contest, who will receive over $20,000 in prizes.Two grand prize winners will be selected to each receive a Google Express shopping spree worth up to $4,500 to help spruce up their school’s teachers’ lounges. Four first place winners will receive a wellness delivery worth up to $2,500 each to help stock up their teachers’ break rooms. All winners, including 25 runner up winners, will receive a Google Home for their school.
Three PTAs also will receive a library of 100 “I Can Read” books including characters like Pete the Cat, Amelia Bedelia, and Biscuit delivered at a school event featuring a children's book author or costume character from HarperCollins Children's Books. Ten additional PTAs will receive an “I Can Read” book set for their school.
“Teachers change the lives of millions of children every day, and their work and impact extends far beyond the boundaries of the classroom,” said Nathan R. Monell, CAE, executive director of National PTA. “It is important that we elevate and support teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week and throughout the year for the pivotal role they play in our children’s lives.”
About National PTA
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.
Media Contact
Heidi May Wilson, National PTA
hmay@pta.org, (703) 518-1242
