Teachers, School Staff Receive Thanks

School communities across Nova Scotia will be saluting teachers and school staff for their work in and out of the classroom during national Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week, Feb. 13-19.

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 nationally celebrated week.

"There are thousands of Nova Scotians who contribute every day to making schools a place where children can learn," said Education Minister Jane Purves. "Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week is an opportunity for Nova Scotians to say 'thank you' for the great work that teachers and school staff do."

Sandra Himmelman, president of the Nova Scotia Federation of Home and School Associations, encourages Nova Scotians to do something special for school staff and teachers this week.

"Every day, in every school, staff and teachers make a huge contribution to the lives of Nova Scotia children," said Ms. Himmelman. "We should all take this opportunity to thank them for their dedication."

Nova Scotia's 158,000 students are served by about 10,000 active teachers and more than 5,000 support staff, including custodians, secretaries, bus drivers, and program assistants.

The Canadian Home and School Federation developed Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week to highlight the contributions of teachers and staff in the education sector. The event has been held annually since 1988.

Students, parents and school groups across the province are planning activities to mark this week. To learn more about events in your community, contact your local home and school association.