PRESS RELEASE

Honor Teachers Throughout the Week of the Classroom Teacher

Media Contact:
Sheri Levin, ACEI Public Relations Manager
slevin@acei.org
(301) 570-2111 Fax: (301) 570-2212

Olney, MD, September 16, 2008--In the United States and throughout the world, teachers serve a crucial role in the development and education of children. However, far too often, the teaching profession is not fully appreciated or sufficiently rewarded. Universally, teachers face similar barriers. Teachers are at the center of many challenging situations, including difficult working environments, a lack of classroom resources, overcrowded classrooms, decreases in funding, or no funding at all. Although the demands placed on teachers are many, people everywhere rely on teachers to educate their children. The Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) is, therefore, pleased to honor the many contributions of teachers during the Week of the Classroom Teacher. This important weeklong commemoration of teachers will be held October 5-11.

ACEI hopes that throughout this week, individuals will demonstrate their appreciation for teachers and help to recognize the efforts they make every school day on behalf of childhood education. Consequently, ACEI members and Branches in the U.S. and internationally will honor teachers with activities, celebrations, and events to mark the occasion.

The Week of the Classroom Teacher is scheduled in conjunction with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's (UNESCO) World Teachers' Day, held on October 5. This day commemorates the date that the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNESCO jointly adopted the Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.

"Teachers are an amazing asset, not only to our children, but also to our communities," states Diane Whitehead, ACEI Acting Executive Director. "They represent what is most honorable in the human spirit; a desire to see others flourish and succeed. ACEI is proud to offer this special time where we hope that everyone will acknowledge and celebrate teachers everywhere."

ACEI offers materials to celebrate teachers and promote the Week of the Classroom Teacher and World Teachers' Day. Visit www.acei.org for a free planning guide filled with suggestions, tips, and sample materials.


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The Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) is the oldest professional organization in the world dedicated to the development of the whole child, from birth to early adolescence. Founded in 1892, ACEI is an organization of teachers, teacher educators, and parents whose primary purpose is to promote the inherent rights, education, and well-being of children in the home, school, and community. ACEI publishes the award-winning publication Childhood Education, as well as the Journal of Research in Childhood Education.