The following is a news release from the Governor’s Office.
AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. LePage has declared May 6-10, 2013, Teacher Appreciation Week—a time to thank Maine teachers for their dedication to our students.
“Effective teachers can open students’ minds to ideas, knowledge and dreams,” said Governor LePage. “Students in all our schools, whether they are public, private, magnet or charter schools, deserve great teachers who will engage them in debate and discussion in a safe environment. These teachers should know their kids appreciate all they do.”
The State of Maine has a lot of challenges ahead in building a public education system based on the needs of each learner—a system that recognizes that students learn best in different ways and at different speeds. The Department of Education cannot move toward this system without the help of Maine’s teachers.
“This week, let’s make sure we thank our teachers for all they’ve done and for the hard work they’re taking on each day to improve educational opportunities for our students,” said Education Commissioner Stephen Bowen. “When it comes to shaping our future here in Maine and nationwide, teachers need to know that their work is vitally important.”
Nationally, Teacher Appreciation Week is a time to celebrate the men and women in our lives who have dedicated themselves to sharing the excitement of learning with others. Throughout the United States, teachers are empowering students with literacy; helping more students graduate from high school prepared for the real world; and improving the lives of the children in their classrooms every single day.
“The lessons taught by these educators extend far beyond the classroom and follow our students throughout their lives,” said Governor LePage. “So take the time this week to show our teachers how much we appreciate the work they do every day for our children.”