World Teachers Day 25 October

Photo By: Mikhail Nilov

“Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.”

Malcolm X

Teachers are wonderful, at the heart of communities, supporting children to learn and grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

“Not All Heroes Wear Capes.” is the 2024 theme celebrating World Teachers Day (Australia).

The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) leads state and territory with professional development aligned to the Professional Standards for Teachers and Principals. AITSL notes that the ‘greatest resource in Australian schools is our teachers and they have ‘the greatest impact on school learning, far outweighing the impact of any other education program or policy.’

AITSL celebrated World Teachers Day (2023) by inviting the community to share and acknowledge the work of teachers. The results can be viewed here:

https://worldteachersday.edu.au/media-wall

Check in to this site for the 2024 celebration.

Some would argue that teaching is more complex and challenging then ever before. Technology is pulling, pushing and teasing teachers with the promise of time-saving systems, apps and devices. Political ideology, and societal and cultural changes add to the complexity of teaching. Principals are tasked with the role of leading and managing the school community. A shout out to Small School Principals who teach and manage the school, often in remote communities.

The recent improvements to teacher salaries do not represent the time spent completing online compliance and professional training. The need to plan and work with colleagues often pushes online tasks into personal time.

United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural organisation (UNESCO) is an agency of the United Nations. The UN celebrates World Teachers Day on October 5. You will find resources and information to learn about and support World Teacher Day. You can find them here:

https://www.unesco.org/en/days/teachers

School Parent and Citizen groups often lead local celebrations. Teacher Unions, health funds and banks such as the Teachers Health fund and Teachers Mutual Bank take part in World Teachers Day celebrations.

Have you thought about celebrating WTD this year?

Yes, it is just a day, but is also an opportunity for the community to celebrate teachers.