Thank You to Teachers, School Staff

It's time to say thank you to Nova Scotia's teachers and school staff. Feb. 11-16 is National Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week.

The Department of Education and the Nova Scotia Federation of Home and School Associations ask all Nova Scotians to applaud the personal and professional contributions of school staff during this week and every day of the year.

Education Minister Jane Purves expressed her thanks to teachers, principals, bus drivers, custodians, administrative staff and many other individuals who help Nova Scotia students succeed.

"Teachers and school staff are the front-line workers of the public school system," said Ms. Purves. "Every day, they offer their many talents in every aspect of student life from the classroom to the soccer field to the bus. We owe them our thanks and appreciation."

Sandra Himmelman, president of the Nova Scotia Federation of Home and School Associations, encourages students and parents throughout the province to do something special this week to show their appreciation for teachers and staff.

"If we are to foster a positive learning environment for our children, it is essential that our educators have the support and involvement of parents and community," said Ms. Himmelman. "This is an ideal time for parents in the province to specially thank the teachers and all school staff for their ongoing commitment to our children."

More than 9,700 teachers and 6,500 school staff serve nearly 156,000 students in Nova Scotia.

The Canadian Home and School Federation began Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week as a way of giving parents and others an opportunity to join in a countrywide demonstration of support for teachers and staff. It has been celebrated each year since 1988.