School divisions, schools, and school community councils are celebrating with activities throughout the week, as the Province of Saskatchewan proclaimed February 9th to 15th as Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week.
"From providing skills and knowledge in the classroom to supporting student activities, teachers and school staff provide the foundation for lifelong learning," said Education Minister Everett Hindley.
The week recognizes the many contributions of teachers and staff in Saskatchewan schools who embody the qualities reflected in this year's theme 'Heroes of Education.'
Keith Keating, Director of Education with the Southeast Cornerstone Public School Division said while at the school level, administrators and SCC are acknowledging staff for their contributions within the school communities, at the division level, they're sharing gratitude via social media.
"Just to let our staff know how grateful we are, for all the work they do for us. All the way from our bus drivers and student support workers or educational assistants, administrators, central office folks, mechanics and facility people, and all those people just keep the system running smoothly for students."
He said they are all a part of ensuring the SECPSD continues to provide excellent opportunities for students across our system.
The 'Heroes of Education', he noted, have attributes and skills not everyone can boast.
"We have great staff across the system who are patient, but they're also persistent in making sure the students live up to their full potential," Keating shared. "I have a great deal of respect for those people who are living that to make sure that we ensure success for our youth."
He said while sometimes the school division receives positive feedback from parents and students, it is more commonly directly acknowledged at the local level.
"One of the best ways to go about providing feedback is to thank a person who's made an impact or a difference in your life. Even if it's years later, I think we all have teachers, coaches, adults who've made a difference in our life, and what a great way to acknowledge the people by letting them know what they've meant to you."
"I would encourage people if they've had a teacher that's had an impact on them in the past, to have that conversation with them. I know we've probably all have them."
Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week has been celebrated across Canada for 38 years and is supported by the Saskatchewan Association of School Councils (SASC), acknowledging teachers and staff and their commitment to Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12 education.
"As we celebrate Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week across the province, we would like to recognize teachers and school staff for their ongoing commitment and dedication to the students and families they serve," said SASC Director Joy Bastness. "We thank them for all that they do and continue to do to achieve successful student outcomes."