Thousands say thanks to valued teachers

• Thank a Teacher Today! message board celebrates teachers' contribution

• Two prizes awarded to a parent and a teacher as part of the initiative

More than 2,000 students, parents and members of the community have shown their gratitude to public school teachers, writing messages of praise on the State Government's Thank a Teacher Today! message board.

Education Minister Peter Collier said the number of expressions of gratitude was overwhelming.

"I thank all those who took the time to recognise exemplary teachers as part of World Teachers' Day," Mr Collier said.

"The messages show just how much teachers are valued in our schools and are testament to the difference teachers are making in the lives of students and their families.

"As a former teacher of 23 years, I know how much it means when students and parents acknowledge your hard work and dedication.  It is amazing the number of students who make contact years after leaving school to say thanks for making a positive difference to their lives, and the message board gave students a forum to do this."

The online board was open for three weeks during October and the number of messages received was up 11 per cent from last year.  Hocking Primary School teachers received the most messages (330), followed by Ardross Primary School teachers (122) and Bruce Rock District High School teachers (113).

Parent Rebecca Guy won a Kindle touch e-reader valued at $199 for her message to North Tom Price Primary School teacher Kate Asphar.

"The change we have seen in Charli since the beginning of the year has largely been due to you and we are so very grateful," Rebecca wrote.  "The warm, positive, safe environment you have provided has given her the confidence to grow and we will always appreciate that you took the time to see the little personality behind the silent smile."

Every teacher thanked on the message board went into a draw to receive $500 towards professional learning and Ashdale Primary School teacher Lisa Kingsbury won.

She was recognised by parents Sharon and Greg Singleton. "We have been very fortunate to have you as Dex's teacher for two years and it truly shows," they wrote.

"He has really 'come into his own' and blossomed under your guidance - we find he is engaged and motivated to achieve and do his best, and it's a reflection of your dedication to your students as well as the community environment of Ashdale Primary School."

      Fact File

• 2,078 comments were received this year in the initiative's three weeks

• Last year, 1,879 were received in two months

• Teachers recognised receive certificate signed by Minister and Department of Education director general, Sharyn O'Neill

• 26 new schools and 640 new classrooms have been built under this State Government

• More students than ever before in public schools, incl. community kindergartens 

Minister's office - 6552 6300