Superintendent of Perry Township Schools
We truly appreciate and value our teachers every day. As we observe Teacher Appreciation Week, it seems fitting to express and renew our gratitude.
Our educators play such an integral part in the development of our students. They play a critical role in educating and shaping our children – the future leaders of our country. Our teachers are kind, patient, hard-working, dedicated and understanding professionals who mold our children’s lives in a positive direction.
Our teachers are committed to empowering our children – academically, emotionally and socially. Each day they strive to help our students be more confident and better scholars. They know that success cannot exclusively be measured with standardized test scores because there are so many factors that influence a student’s ability to master new concepts.
Our educators look for memorable ways to help students learn and retain information. Some have incorporated costumes and props into their lesson plans. Some use instruments to add a little rhythm to the curriculum. Others provide incentives to keep students motivated. Our teachers also work to build an approachable – yet professional – rapport with students so they understand they have another trusted adult to look out for them.
Our educators don’t just work during classroom hours. When they aren’t teaching students they are teaching themselves and one another before and after school. We encourage professional development throughout the year. We are proud to have an initiative in which our experienced educators – also known as master teachers –regularly mentor newer teachers to help them grow because when they grow our students grow as well.
Master teachers are even available to give advice to their colleagues outside of their regularly scheduled meeting times. If an educator encounters a student with a unique set of challenges, the teacher may look to one of their co-workers who has past experience that could help meet the student’s needs. It has been such an honor to watch teachers – especially the younger ones – flourish with the support of their more experienced peers. When our teachers flourish our students flourish.
Though Teacher Appreciation Week is officially acknowledged in May, we hope that our community will show gratitude every day. A simple thank you can go a long way in letting a teacher know that you value their hard work and the role they play in shaping our children.
Thank you to all of the teachers in Perry Township and beyond.