As the school year ends Dr. Scales encourages parent to take time to thank a teacher

Dr. Scales: As school year ends, take time to thank a teacher

What nobler employment, or more valuable to the state,
than that of the man who instructs the rising generation?
Marcus Tullius Cicero

As we wrap up the 2008–09 school year, I want to take this opportunity to thank all those involved in providing our children with a high-quality education. The work of our principals, teachers, staff and parents has been tremendous this year, and I believe our efforts will come to fruition with higher student achievement and success in the years to come.
May is National Teacher Appreciation Month, and I can think of no greater way to solidify the future of this community than to salute those who help shape the citizens of tomorrow.
Everybody has someone who made a profound impact on how they view the world. Many times, that inspiration was a teacher.
Hamilton County Schools is proud to employ more than 3,000 teachers. These are our front line soldiers, inspiring our youth and providing our students with the skills they need to succeed in a global economy.
Teachers are the bricklayers for tomorrow’s generation: inspiring our youth to succeed, encouraging them to press on, instilling in them a sense of community, and challenging students to reach their highest potential.
Without teachers, our world would be devoid of the very foundation society relies upon. They are the rocks upon which our community is built. They offer a service to our children daily that is above reproach and beyond comparison. They go above and beyond each day, for the joy of seeing a child’s mind come alive and opening a student’s heart to knowledge.
I encourage all citizens in Hamilton County to step up and say “Thank you!” to a teacher this month for the hard work they do and for their role in helping to shape the future of our community.
I offer my sincere appreciation to our teachers and staff who work tirelessly for our children. Their efforts will be seen in the greatness we create for tomorrow, in the citizens we produce. The work they do has value beyond compare and is priceless. Thank you for what you do for our children.

Sincerely,
Jim Scales, PhD