National Teacher Day ― Date, History, and Details
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Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of National Teacher Day and why people celebrate or observe it.
History of National Teacher Day and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
National Teacher Day is a day set aside to recognize and celebrate the contributions of teachers. It is usually observed on the first Tuesday in May. In some states, it is a legal holiday. Many schools and organizations hold special events and activities to honor teachers on this day.
The origins of National Teacher Day can be traced back to 1944 when Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge first proposed the idea of a day to celebrate teachers. Woodridge was a member of the National Education Association (NEA). The NEA and its affiliate, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), lobbied Congress to designate a day to honor teachers. In 1953, they succeeded when Congress proclaimed National Teacher Day for the first time.
Since its inception, National Teacher Day has been celebrated in various ways. Teachers often receive gifts, cards, and flowers from students and parents. Some schools hold special assemblies or events to honor teachers. In some cases, teachers are given the day off from school.
The NEA and AFT continue to lobby Congress to make National Teacher Day a national holiday. However, this has not yet been successful.