Letter: All teachers deserve our respect and gratitude

In the May 10 St. Paul Pioneer Press there was a “spotlight letter” written by two top St. Paul administrators, Ann Mulholland and Mike Anderson.

They gave praise to the 3,200 St. Paul teachers for hard work in teaching and inspiring their students.

This was in connection with Teacher Appreciation week, May 7-11.

These administrators pointed out, “An important way we can thank our teachers this year is by changing the public conversation about the challenges in public education from one that too often blames and shames teachers to one grounded in respect for teachers and their craft

“…In our new conversation, let’s show teaching to be a profession held in the highest regard, giving it the respect it deserves. Let students see teaching as one of the best career paths

“…Teachers should be looked to as the leading authority on how young people learn and are sought out for their opinion. Teachers should feel confident they will receive the respect and support they need from their school, their principals, parents, and the community…”

I strongly believe that applies not only to St. Paul teachers but to teachers throughout Minnesota as well as Wisconsin, and the nation as a whole.

Let’s give respect and thanks to all teachers at all levels of education.

Tags: opinion, letters, education