How do you thank the people who support and guide your path to success? Teacher Appreciation Week celebrates educators nationwide for their hard work and dedication. It offers students the opportunity to express their gratitude for the people who consistently support their academic and personal growth.
Teacher Appreciation Week dates back to 1953, when Eleanor Roosevelt suggested to Congress that there should be an official day dedicated to recognizing teachers, according to Schoolyard. However, it wasn’t until 1980 that National Teachers Day was established, when the National Education Association collaborated with the Kansas and Indiana State Boards of Education and influenced Congress to declare it as an official day, according to Schoolyard. While initially celebrated on March 7, it was extended by the National Parent Teacher Association, making it a week-long celebration in the first week of May, according to Schoolyard.
Teachers are the ones who help students achieve their goals and follow their dreams. The diverse staff of Tenafly High School displays the supportive and passionate characteristics that are essential to being an effective teacher. They productively mentor their students, showing that teachers care about students’ academic and individual growth. Whether it’s through educational lessons, activities, after-school help, or simply believing in their students, Tenafly’s staff plays a crucial role in the academic success of every student in the community.
Tenafly students across all grades are excited to express gratitude to the teachers who have made their academic experience comfortable and exciting.
“Senora Ribau is amazing,” Eliana Bieber (’26) said. “She is so sweet and helpful; she even gave me my position as president of our Impact Ambassadors club.”
Orli Rosenstein (’26) shared her appreciation for Mr. Whitehead’s influence on her writing abilities. “He’s taught me a lot about how to be an effective writer,” she said. “He is a super fun and engaging teacher, and I feel lucky to have him.”
Josie Goldberg (’27) shared her appreciation for Mr. Manziano’s supportive attitude. “He encourages me to think creatively so I can be successful in the future,” she said.
“For Teacher Appreciation Week, I’d like to thank Mr. Mirabito,” Zach Kushman (’26) said. “He is a great, generous teacher, and has always been super nice and engaging.”
Ethan Zimmerman (’28) shared how, although “math is not [his] strong suit, Ms. Alvarez is always very helpful.” On a similar note, Daniel Carrillo (’26) shared how “Mrs. D’Amico is always willing to help and “I really appreciate having her as my teacher.”
“Mr. Devereaux deserves gratitude for Teacher Appreciation Week,” said Sophia Gabel (’26). “He truly cares for all of his students and is very thoughtful,” she said.
These comments shared by numerous students highlight teachers’ influence on their students’ morale and academic success. Though only a few teachers are mentioned, all are celebrated for the week, so happy Teacher Appreciation Week!
