Date: May 06, 2022

Dear Families, Colleagues, and Partners in Education:

National Teacher Appreciation week is celebrated each year during the first week of May. Due to state testing, many Lafayette Parish schools are waiting until next week to celebrate our outstanding educators. Regardless of when we celebrate our brilliant teachers, it is important that we express our gratitude for the work they do to impact the success and lives of our students.

Across our district, teachers work tirelessly to provide high-quality instruction so that students graduate from our district prepared for college or a chosen career path. As we close out this school year, it is evident that our educators are making a difference in the lives of our students. We continue to see an increase in the number of students receiving high school diplomas, college credits, high-level career credentials, state and national recognitions, as well as students who are prepared to be successful at the next grade level.

Teachers do much more than teach curriculum. They collaborate with parents, fellow staff members, and administrators to ensure students have the resources needed to be successful. Teachers serve as a vital support system for students, and contribute to an environment where teaching and learning occurs in a safe and nurturing environment.

As a proud educator, I am grateful for the teachers in our district who are shaping the lives of so many children. Through their work, teachers improve the quality of students' lives, making an impact on our community as a whole. Educators are heroes as they continue to push themselves to grow and learn in order to provide students with learning experiences that are rigorous and of high-quality. Our educators are the incredible professionals who have approached the last few challenging school years with determination, commitment, and dedication for our students, their families, and our community.

We can all remember a great teacher who made a positive impact in our lives. Keeping that in mind, please join me in honoring our teachers in expressing gratitude for the important service they provide.