It’s fitting that a number of pro-public education candidates and state and federal office holders made it a priority to recognize educators during National Teacher Appreciation Week, May 7-11. Take a look at how they gave a shout out to educators across the country, and reflected on how their favorite teachers influenced their lives.
U.S. Sen. Tina Smith, Minnesota, posted a thread about some of the teachers who influenced her, along with an endearing photo from junior high!
Here’s a photo from junior high. Growing up I was lucky to have some great teachers who made a real impact on my life, and who I still remember to this day. pic.twitter.com/CdCvAcXnhd
— Senator Tina Smith (@SenTinaSmith) May 8, 2018
And in high school my chemistry teacher didn’t give up on me when I struggled to grasp the material. I knew that he believed in my potential, so when it was time to apply for college, I asked him to write my letter of recommendation.
— Senator Tina Smith (@SenTinaSmith) May 8, 2018
I’m so grateful for these teachers, and for all teachers across Minnesota who are shaping our students into curious, compassionate, and smart leaders. So today—on #TeacherAppreciationDay—I want to say thank you. #ThankATeacher https://t.co/y8HwfYEyll
— Senator Tina Smith (@SenTinaSmith) May 8, 2018
U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, Wisconsin, gave a heartfelt thanks via video, and a thread of tweets thanking the teachers who prepared her for a career in public service.
Thank you to all the educators in Wisconsin who work hard and help lift students up to their dreams. #TeacherAppreciationWeek pic.twitter.com/QpnMcnNmuy
— Sen. Tammy Baldwin (@SenatorBaldwin) May 9, 2018
I still remember two math teachers – Ms. Bauman and Mr. Loker – who inspired a love of math that is still going strong to this day! #ThankATeacher
— Sen. Tammy Baldwin (@SenatorBaldwin) May 9, 2018
Join me this week in thanking a teacher that inspired you! #TeacherAppreciationWeek pic.twitter.com/3BsylaDzxG
— Sen. Tammy Baldwin (@SenatorBaldwin) May 9, 2018
Gretchen Whitmer–the daughter and granddaughter of educators who is now running for governor of Michigan–gave a heartfelt thanks and reiterated her lifelong commitment to public schools and supporting educators.
Teachers show up every day to prepare the next generation for success. We need to make sure we give them the support they need to be successful in the classroom.
Happy #TeacherAppreciationDay, thanks for everything you do! pic.twitter.com/Cj8LNoNDNF
— Gretchen Whitmer (@gretchenwhitmer) May 8, 2018
U.S. Sen. Heidi Heitkamp, North Dakota, also decided to show her appreciation in person.
Teaching is one of the hardest yet most important jobs. Thanks to North Dakota teachers all around the state for your commitment to helping students grow & fostering supportive environments in our communities. #TeacherAppreciationDay pic.twitter.com/TXz22V6sGz
— Sen. Heidi Heitkamp (@SenatorHeitkamp) May 8, 2018
Here are some more shoutouts by other elected leaders:
U.S. Sen. Joe Donnelly, Indiana
This #TeacherAppreciationWeek, l hope you’ll join me in recognizing our state’s teachers for the important work they do every day to educate Hoosier students & ensure they have a strong foundation for success. Teachers, thanks again for your dedication & tireless hard work – Joe pic.twitter.com/MasOG6y7Sd
— Senator Joe Donnelly (@SenDonnelly) May 7, 2018
U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, Ohio
Our bipartisan resolution designating this week as National #TeacherAppreciationWeek just passed the Senate. But the work to make sure our educators feel valued and supported never stops. To all the teachers out there – thank you for what you do.
— Sherrod Brown (@SenSherrodBrown) May 11, 2018
Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf
Our teachers are shaping the future of our commonwealth every day. This #TeacherAppreciationDay, we recognize all that they do to make a difference in the lives of our students and in our communities. #ThankATeacher https://t.co/pngcgmSjaz
— Governor Tom Wolf (@GovernorTomWolf) May 8, 2018
Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards
This week is Teacher Appreciation Week in LA. We recognize the positive impact teachers have on the lives of our children. Teachers work countless hours & face enormous challenges in their mission. Be sure to thank an educator this week. #TeacherAppreciation #ThankaTeacher #lagov pic.twitter.com/3ZNh92CHLD
— John Bel Edwards (@LouisianaGov) May 7, 2018
U.S. Rep. Jacky Rosen, Nevada
Happy #TeacherAppreciationDay to all of #NV03’s wonderful teachers! Thank you for your dedication to our kids and their education. Your contributions make Nevada’s future brighter. pic.twitter.com/gHRSVmbR1D
— Rep. Jacky Rosen (@RepJackyRosen) May 8, 2018
Teachers are America’s future. But With all the appreciation, let’s not forget our special ed educators. These Students too have much potential and we must always recognize them as we celebrate and appreciate our teachers.
Thank You Mrs Feltenstein, Thank you Mrs Paul’s,Thank U Mrs Sherry and Sheila Cohen, Ms Meyers, Ms BErry ,Mrs Deitz, Mr Ankowitz, Mr Sullivan,Mrs Morris, Ms Carroll , Mr nenphertti, At Central School! Mr and Mrs clotting, Mr and Mrs Turits ,Mr Aiello, and Mr Boyer, and the others At Hommocks School and At Mamaroneck High School Mr Archambault, Mrs Kennelly,Mrs Aucthelonie, Mr Ippolitto, Ms Gonzalez, Mr Barnie Gill ,Mr Diggenaro, Mrs Sper, Mr Restaino, Mr Al Phillips, Ms Turner, Mrs Minor, Mr Roush Mr Thomas Tiktin principal Mr Markowitz and Mr Burnham guidance counselors , Mrs Barbra Manning , Mrs Laurie Miranda guidance department secretaries.