DEMOCRATS PRAISE TEACHERS

 Pass Joint Resolution in honor of Teacher Appreciation Day

AUGUSTA- Earlier today, in honor of Teacher Appreciation Day, the Senate and House unanimously passed a Joint Resolution in support of Maine’s teachers.

“While we should celebrate our teachers every day, it’s nice to have a special day devoted to honoring and thanking our teachers for their hard work. There is no question that Maine teachers are dedicated to making the classroom stronger and preparing our students,” said Senate President Justin Alfond (D-Portland). “Every day, I am reminded of the many lessons I learned from the teachers at Dexter Regional School. They encouraged me to work hard and, in looking back, what continues to impress me is how many of my teachers went above and beyond their call of duty.”

According to recent polling, more than 70% of Americans have a positive or very positive opinion of teachers.  

“This week we celebrate and honor our teachers for all that they do for our children,” said House Speaker Mark Eves (D-North Berwick).  “So many of us can tell a story about a teacher that made a difference in our lives — from inspiring us to pursue an interest or giving us an extra boost of confidence when we needed it most.  My mother was a teacher for 30 years, and like so many of our teachers in Maine, she worked tirelessly on behalf of her students.”

In 1953, Eleanor Roosevelt persuaded Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Appreciation Day. In 1985, the NEA and the National PTA designated the first full week in May as Teacher Appreciation Week, and proclaimed Tuesday of that week National Teacher Appreciation Day.

“Teachers have earned, and are well-deserving of, our respect for their selfless dedication to their profession, their communities, and the future of our children,” said Senator Rebecca Millett (D-Cape Elizabeth), the Senate Chair of the Education Committee and sponsor of the resolution. “A day of appreciation is the least we can do to say thank you for all they have given us.”

There are more than 16,000 public school teachers in Maine, and more than 3.2 million public school teachers in the US.

“As a retired teacher and principal, I know firsthand how hard our teachers work on behalf of our kids. The dedication of teachers is truly inspiring and they deserve our fullest support,” said Rep. Bruce MacDonald (D-Boothbay), the House Chair of the Education Committee.

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