An annual week intended to recognize and appreciate the work of teachers and staff in schools has been accurately titled, “Pulling Together.”
Never before have teachers and school staff been more responsible for children’s well-being as amidst the ongoing presence and threat of pandemic problems. Through it all they have pulled together to persevere, easily move from in-person to online teaching, continue to provide a sense of normal in school days experiences for students as well as continuing to lead the extra-curricular activity that has been a saving grace for physical and mental well-being of students.
Light of Christ Catholic Schools board chair, Glen Gantefoer, stated in a letter on social media, “… In the midst of COVID-19 madness, the board has been humbled by all you have done, and continue to do, to support our students and families.”
“ … We admire how well you adapted to the ever-changing protocols and the shift from in-person to on-learning scenario of 2020-21. We were again impressed when, without complaint, you responded to the need for sanitation, self-isolation and navigated for the push for vaccination in 2021-22.”
There is no doubt there have been challenges, but they have been met by pulling together as a team to provide education for students and the sense of normal kids have craved through the past two years of uncertainty. Their work includes management of changes in class delivery or keeping cohorts together when buses don’t run or weather systems challenge staff attendance as well as addressing issues that may arrive upon positive cases being confirmed in the class or the school.
Living Sky School Division social media says, “We are saluting the staff in February, the week of Feb. 6-12 Staff Appreciation Week 'Pulling Together.' If you see one of our support staff or teachers, please thank them for the superlative service they give you and your children. We are so blessed to have an amazing front office team, wonderful EAs and gifted teachers. This year we have been leaning on our replacement and substitute staff as well. Thank you for being a great resource for our school. We are so appreciative.”
Teachers and school staff often play an unrecognized role in participating and supporting student fundraisers and activity. As well, without the commitment of teachers and school staff, a large part of student's school experience that involves extra-curricular activity, would not be possible.
A number of parents offered their thoughts as well to acknowledge teachers.
Lori Fenrich from Wilkie, mother of students in elementary and high school says, “Very pleased and impressed with teachers and staff keeping the kids safe, attending in-person classes and sports. It is vital our kids can attend school for their well-being. The very best to all the staff!”
Katrina Erickson, a Wilkie mom who has a daughter in elementary school says, “Teachers and staff are doing an awesome job, making the kids their number one priority, keeping them safe and enjoying school.”
Kari Stabbler, mother of two elementary children in Unity, says, “I would like to take a moment to thank our teachers and school staff. For almost two years, you, along with the rest of the world have experienced unprecedented change. You have had to shift from in-classroom learning to virtual and back to the classroom, while having to worry about social distancing and safety on top of all your other duties. You have completely reinvented what learning looks like and I know this journey has not been without frustrations. For this, I personally would like to thank you for going above your call of duty, and ensuring our schools are still a happy and safe place for our children to attend, to learn and socialize. Thank you for keeping life as 'normal' as possible in this very 'abnormal' time. Thank you for your selflessness and always going the extra mile for our children.”
A number of thank you gestures are extended to teachers and school staff that include meals, treats in the staff room, parents providing noon hour supervision and other acts of kindness.
