Teacher Appreciation Week

Published: 5/4/2009 12:00:00 AM

Today marks the kick-off of Teacher Appreciation Week, and I hope that you will join me in thanking our teachers for their service to our community. Professionally, I am acutely aware of the integral tie between strong economic development and a strong educational system. On a personal level, I truly appreciate the many teachers who helped get me where I am today and those who helped my son, A.J., reach his full potential.

Teacher Appreciation Week
Alvin Nance

Today marks the kick-off of Teacher Appreciation Week, and I hope that you will join me in thanking our teachers for their service to our community.

Professionally, I am acutely aware of the integral tie between strong economic development and a strong educational system. On a personal level, I truly appreciate the many teachers who helped get me where I am today and those who helped my son, A.J., reach his full potential.

Sadly, these dedicated professionals often spend their own money – around $1,200 each year per teacher - to provide basic school supplies for their classrooms. Recognizing the need, U.S. Cellular is this week capping off a $1 million campaign, Calling All Teachers, which will provide school supplies to teachers across the country.

Through the campaign, teachers posted requests on DonorsChoose.org, a philanthropic Web site that helps public school teachers find money for classroom projects that exceed their budgets. This week, the wireless carrier will grant as many of those wishes as possible within its $1 million budget.

My thanks go out to U.S. Cellular for supporting schools. More importantly, I applaud the service of our teachers who dedicate themselves to educating our young people.

KCDC’s mission is to improve and transform neighborhoods and communities by providing quality affordable housing, advancing development initiatives and fostering self-sufficiency. For more information, call (865) 403-1100 or visit http://www.kcdc.org.