Emerson Jr. Sr. High School is full of so many hardworking, dedicated, and inspiring teachers. It is so important that the students are taking the time to recognize all the wonderful staff, after all they have done during the school year.
When Mrs. Johnson, a Physical Education teacher at Emerson Jr Sr High school was asked about what this special week meant, she stated, “It is so thoughtful and amazing to be recognized along with the wonderful co-workers/teachers I work with.”
Sharing a message to students about what her role as a teacher means to her, Mrs. Johnson also said, “We teachers enjoy what we do and how we help students every day, whether as teachers, friends, or confidants. It’s a privilege to see how these students grow and succeed, both academically and personally. We see their joys, frustrations, determinations, and disappointments. It can be a struggle at times, but very rewarding at other times.”
To begin the week, teachers were welcomed by a clap-in by students on Monday morning. They walked on a rolled-out red carpet, surrounded by smiles and applause, and this set the start of the week – to remind teachers how their work is appreciated and celebrated.
Another great part of the week was the flower bouquet station that was set up in the lobby on Monday as well. Teachers were able to pick from a bunch of different flowers to create their own bouquet in a glass jar. The jars had little notes tied around them with ribbon, which thanked teachers telling them how they are appreciated. As students walked in during the morning, they could see the pure joy on their teachers’ smiling faces as they made their bouquets and carried them to their classrooms.
Home-baked goods were delivered to the teachers’ lounge on Tuesday morning, and there were cookies, cupcakes, brownies, and Rice Krispies treats – definitely a sweet way to start the day!
The week is still going strong, and so is the appreciation. There was a breakfast served by the administrators earlier today. Mr. Hutchinson, Mr. Ponchak, and Ms. Murphy scrambled eggs, fried bacon, melted cheese, and toasted bagels, croissants, and brioche rolls – thanking their hungry and happy colleagues while doing so.
A 3:00 pm dismissal on Thursday and ice pops on Friday are also planned, but the real treats come from the students.
Emerson Jr. Sr. High School sophomore, Josie D’Auria stated (after being asked about which teacher is an inspiration to her), “Ms. Brentnall is definitely an inspiration to me; she is very smart, supportive, and very chill. I relate to her because she was just a student herself, and she can understand the stress we are under.”
Everyone was reminded throughout the week of the efforts their teachers make, and they expressed their gratitude towards them.
Thank you to every teacher for your dedication, patience, leadership and impact! Emerson Jr. Sr. High School would definitely not be the same without you!
