Arntzen Encourages Montanans to Celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week, Nominate Teacher of the Year Candidates

May 3, 2021

HELENA - Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen issued the following statement today in recognition of National Teacher Appreciation Week:

'Today marks the beginning of National Teacher Appreciation Week! Montanans have always valued the role teachers play in our students' lives, but perhaps never more than this past year. Our great teachers stepped up, adapted, and continued to put the education of their precious students first. As a 23-year teacher in Billings Public Schools and the daughter of two Montana public school teachers, it is an honor and privilege to lead our state's hardworking educators. And we here at the OPI and across all of Montana thank you so much for everything you have done and continue to do!'

As part of National Teacher Appreciation Week, Arntzen is encouraging families across Montana to nominate an educator who has made an impact on their students' lives to be Montana Teacher of the Year for 2022. The mission of the Montana Teacher of the Year Program is to elevate student success by empowering classroom innovation and enhancing pathways to teacher leadership. More information on the program and the nomination process can be found here. Nomination forms are due back to the OPI by May 14^th. The 2021 Montana Teacher of the Year is Kristi Borge of Polaris was announced last September.

Additionally, Friday May 7^th is National School Lunch Hero Day. Celebrated annually since 2013, School Lunch Hero Day was designated by The School Nutrition Association and Jarrett Krosoczka, author of the 'Lunch Lady' graphic novel series. School Lunch Hero Day provides an opportunity for parents, students, school staff, and communities to thank those who provided healthy meals to Montana's students during difficult circumstances over the past year.

'These public servants have been such staples of the school community in every district across Montana, ensuring that the nutritional needs of all students were met despite the pandemic,' Arntzen said. 'As we celebrate the reopening of our schools and communities, let us honor our School Lunch Heroes for their tremendous contributions as well!'

Get additional details about School Lunch Hero Day at www.schoollunchheroday.com. To learn more about the school nutrition programs in Montana, visit the OPI's website.

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Contact:

Chris Averill, Communications Director, 406-444-3449

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