The Power of the Profession:
Dr. Rice Reflects on the Power of Teachers
May 7, 2020
LANSING –State Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice knows the powerful effect teachers have on their students and our world. He’s experienced it first-hand, as a student, as a local educator, and now as Michigan’s state superintendent.
In the latest #proudMIeducator video, celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week and Month, Dr. Rice reflects upon the power of the education profession – sharing his experience as a student and the influence teachers have had on his life; why educators continue to be such an important part our communities; and ways in which we can collectively work to rebuild the pride associated with the profession.
“Teachers change lives every day,” Dr. Rice said. “Over a period of years, more has been asked of our teachers – far beyond instruction. We need to recognize the greater challenges and appreciate our teachers for the wide range of responsibilities – formal and informal – that they have.
“As we honor Michigan’s teachers, we also pay tribute to those who taught Michigan’s educators. Just as our children stand on the shoulders of their teachers, so too do educators stand on the shoulders of their teachers. We all benefit from those who have poured into us in our lives.”
The #proudMIeducator initiative is part of a greater effort by MDE to recognize and celebrate the state’s outstanding education workforce. Anyone can participate in the social media-driven campaign designed to shine a spotlight on those making a difference for students in schools and districts across the state – simply tag posts using the #proudMIeducator hashtag. To stay connected, be sure to like/follow both MDE and the Office of Educator Excellence on social media:
For more information about the #proudMIeducator campaign, including previous videos in the series and information on how to nominate an educator to be featured in an upcoming video, visit michigan.gov/proudMIeducator.
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