The Colorado Education Association announced on Apr. 30 that it is encouraging the public to turn appreciation for teachers into action during Teacher Appreciation Week.
The association said this effort aims to protect students, strengthen public schools, and ensure educators are treated with respect and dignity. The campaign encourages community members to show support for teachers not only through words but also by taking steps such as contacting lawmakers and advocating for increased school funding.
“Teachers do all they can for their students, and we’re doing all we can for teachers. We’re transforming our appreciation into action that protects students, strengthens public schools, and ensures educators are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. From our social media pages to the offices of our Representatives and Senators, this Teacher Appreciation Week – we’re taking action,” the association said in a statement.
The organization outlined three main ways people can participate: writing to Congress about education issues, advocating for K-12 funding in Colorado by supporting SB26-135, or sending thank-you messages to teachers using social media tags @coloradoea and #ThankATeacher. The group highlighted an outdated spending cap from 1992 that has limited school funding in Colorado for over three decades. It called on residents to urge their representatives to vote yes on SB26-135 so Coloradans could have more say in funding public education.
In addition, the association encouraged people to contact Congress regarding proposed federal budget changes that would increase defense spending while reducing funds for education programs. Supporters were also invited to send e-cards expressing gratitude directly to educators.
National Teacher Appreciation Day will be observed on May 5, followed by National Black Teacher Appreciation Day on May 7.
