There are two times in the year that we make a special effort to thank our public-school educators. In November we have American Education Week and then in May we have teacher appreciation week. Considering everything that our educators are going through, I am not sure that is enough.
It’s been a tough year with staff shortages, a lack of substitutes, more absences because of Covid-19, and on top of all of that, a lot of political rhetoric aimed at dividing educators and parents. Yet, with all of this going on, South Dakota’s educators continue to be professionals by showing up to give students a complete and accurate education. Day in and day out you give everything you have to create an environment that gives them the freedom to learn. It’s been daunting, but you do it anyway.
I don’t want to wait until May to say thank you for everything you are doing for our students. You need to hear it right now, and probably every day from now until the end of time. SDEA is committed to making sure that every parent, lawmaker, community leader or anyone who cares about the kids of South Dakota knows how hard the educators of South Dakota are working. You have always worked hard, but these are unprecedented times, and you deserve gratitude now more than ever.
It is my hope that when parents and your communities really understand the challenges you are all facing, it helps bring us together to push back against the rhetoric and, together, demand that our state leaders provide the funding our schools need, and our students deserve. I think a united front would be one of the best thank-you gifts we can give.
Let me be frank; South Dakotans need to realize that if we continue down this current path of political divisiveness, we will lose more and more educators. The current conditions are not sustainable. As your SDEA President, I am committed to making sure everyone truly understands the challenges you face and why we need to not only be more appreciative of your work, but give you the resources necessary so you can and want to continue to do the amazing work you do.
I always end this column letting you know how honored I am to represent the world’s most dedicated educators. But, after witnessing your efforts over the last couple of years, I am also in awe of your commitment to the students of South Dakota. Thank You.
