Teacher Appreciation Week is May 4-8. As a professional association that serves Arkansas teachers, and as parents and educators ourselves, we at the Arkansas State Teachers Association have the utmost confidence in the women and men serving our state’s students. Your professionalism and dedication have shined during these disruptive times. As you work tirelessly to meet the needs of our children and demands of your districts, you also manage the care and learning of your own children and loved ones who need you.

The care, encouragement, and learning provided students at this time is nothing short of heroic. Yes, heroic, as we also take your distressing calls on a daily basis and know the realities behind the smiles and hope you bring students. We have cried and problem-solved with you as you worry over serving children with special needs, living in difficult home environments, and whose families are struggling – and all while learning new technology and methods and striving to meet the expectations of administration. You certainly carry one of the heaviest loads at this time. Thank you for all you do during these tough days and always. Thank you for choosing education. Thank you for your dedication to our state’s most precious treasures, our children. Your value is beyond measure. 

Fellow Arkansans, it’s Teacher Appreciation Week. We encourage you to join us at the Arkansas State Teachers Association as we celebrate our teachers and recognize their efforts during these extraordinary times.

Michele Ballentine-Linch, Phd
Executive Director
Arkansas State Teachers Association
astapro.org