Happy Teacher Day

Did you know that May 3 is National Teacher Day? A national day to celebrate classroom heroes was the brainchild of Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge. Mrs. Woodridge wrote a letter to Eleanor Roosevelt, urging the First Lady to persuade her husband to proclaim a special day to honor teachers. In 1953, the U.S. Congress proclaimed the very first National Teacher Day.

To celebrate National Teacher Day, the Delaware Department of Education is holding a student essay contest for First State students to write why their teacher is special – in 350 words or less. Three winning educators — one each from elementary, middle and high school — will receive $100 gift cards. Also, Secretary of Education Lillian Lowery will take over their classrooms for half a day as a reward. Students who write the winning essays each will receive $50 gift cards.

To be eligible, the student must nominate a classroom teacher, specialist or paraprofessional in a Delaware public school and the student must be a current student of that educator. Entries may be submitted online at greatteachers@doe.k12.de.us. The essay submission deadline is Friday, April 22. All nominations will be posted on the Delaware Department of Education’s website the week of May 2.

This week marks Spring Break for many kids in Delaware. I know for my family it brings a rare time with no homework, play rehearsals or baseball practice! It would be a great time to sit down with your kids and have them write down how they feel about their favorite teacher. Let your teachers know how important they are to your children and your family.

And don’t forget to wish your classroom heroes a Happy Teacher Day on May 3.

Related Topics: DDOE