American Education Week focuses on nation’s commitment to students and educators

WASHINGTON—Communities across the nation will join the National Education Association Nov. 13-17, 2023, to celebrate American Education Week  The annual observance honors students, educators, and parents—and rededicates the nation’s commitment to providing a quality public education for every student.  

“American Education Week serves as a tribute to the team of people who work with our students, everyone from the classroom teacher and the administrative staff to the cafeteria worker and the bus driver,” said NEA President Becky Pringle. “We honor and thank them for the work they do every day to make sure that our students are safe and are ready and able to learn.” 

To celebrate Education Support Professionals (ESP) Day during the weeklong observance, NEA and President Pringle will host a national tele-town hall meeting, “Championing Education Support Professionals” on Wednesday, Nov. 15. Along with President Pringle, speakers will include Sen. Edward Markey, who recently introduced a new resolution calling for a National ESP Bill of Rights, and Pamella Johnson, the 2023 NEA ESP of the Year.  

They will discuss the important role ESPs play in the lives of students, the critical issues facing their professions, and what these educators need to ensure every student succeeds.  

NEA is also asking the public to sign a pledge to show support for the education professionals who work tirelessly for student success. Participants can also send a thank you message to ESP (or receive them, if they are ESPs themselves!) by texting CELEBRATE to 48744.  

Each year, American Education Week takes place the week prior to the Thanksgiving holiday. It was first celebrated in 1921, with NEA and the American Legion as co-sponsors, and grew out of a national concern over illiteracy. After more than 100 years, the original goal of American Education Week—to generate public awareness and support for education—continues today. 

American Education Week honors students’ determination to learn; recognizes the professionalism and dedication of teachers, support staff, and other educators; thanks parents and members of the community who help students succeed; and rededicates the community at large to quality public education for every student.  

“It’s on all of us to make sure our public schools and education professionals have the resources they need to create welcoming learning environments where all students can thrive,” said Pringle. “Together, we can create the safe, just and equitable public schools our students deserve.” 

To find out more about AEW visit www.nea.org/aew 

Be sure to follow AEW on Facebook and Twitter with #aew2023. 

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The National Education Association is the nation's largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org.