The district and its students celebrated the hard work and dedication of the teaching staff during Teacher Appreciation Week, held May 2-6. Since 1984, the National PTA has designated the first week in May as a special time to honor the men and women who lend their passion and skills to educating our children.

“We understand the hard work and dedication that these teachers bring every single day,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Yiendhy Farrelly. “This week serves to recognize the impact they have on each student, not only inside the classroom, but beyond the walls. ”
    
The PTAs at each of the district’s seven schools had plenty of surprises planned throughout the week. At the Senior High School, Junior High School and elementary schools, there were PTA-sponsored teacher appreciation breakfasts, brunches or luncheons. South Bay’s PTA even brought in a licensed massage therapist who offered 10-minute neck massages.
    
Across the district, building principals also treated their teachers to a breakfast or luncheon. Each morning, administrators showed their appreciation for their staff by reading special messages during announcements each day.
    
“As principal, I am grateful every day for my teachers because of their willingness to work collaboratively, with the shared mission of providing the best possible school experience for every child,” said South Bay Principal JoAnn Scott. “No challenge has ever been too great for my teachers, and I am proud to work with the kind of professionals who go to any length to find creative solutions. The synergy generated by our shared learning environment is powerful. It is a joy to work among such fine educators!”
    
Forest Avenue Principal Patricia Acocella also recognized the school’s teachers during the week’s morning announcements, researching and sharing poems about the impact that teachers have had, and will continue to have, on our lives. “I also put a quote a day on the dry erase board hanging in the main office for all teachers to see,” she said. “I’ve made our Forest community aware of this recognition by displaying it on our signboard in the building, and in my Weekly Forest Ranger, which is emailed to all parents, guardians and staff. It’s a wonderful week of recognizing the extreme dedication and professionalism of the teaching staff. ”
    
Elementary students also had a chance to show their appreciation for their teachers. Santapogue students were given paper buckets to color and cut out.

Each student wrote about a special teacher at the school and thanked them for their hard work. Once filled with appreciative messages, the buckets were placed on a bulletin board in the hallway, where they will remain for the rest of the school year.