The goal of this day is to create a time and place where teachers worldwide are celebrated for their achievements and teacher respect is encouraged by society as a whole. At the same time, as a society that encourages education and the qualification of its teachers, we need to be aware of and draw attention to those issues that distract from getting students the education they have the right to and need.

This Day’s History

International Teacher’s Day was established in 1994 to be held on October 5th annually. This day commemorates the signing of the 1966 UNESCO/ILO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.

This is meant to take notice of and address a variety of issues and situations that teachers deal with around the world. It strives to give guidance to teachers and teacher organizations on such issues as recruitment, education personnel policies, initial training, continuing education of teachers, their working conditions, and their employment.

How It is Celebrated

Each year UNESCO and Education International or EI partners with private organizations such as media companies to celebrate this day. Each year has a different theme, designed to bring awareness to the role that teachers play in society and student development.

This year’s theme is “The right to education means the right to a qualified teacher.” It is meant to bring awareness to and remind us that only through trained and qualified teachers can the right to education be realized. It also serves to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which was established in 1948.

Schools and students around the globe seek to celebrate this day in multiple ways, from classroom parties to town festivals. However, some places hold these festivities on different days. India, for example, has been celebrating teachers and their roles on September 5th every year. There are more than 100 countries that are known to revel in the positive outcomes of International Teachers’ Day.

As parents we have a responsibility to teach our youngsters about the importance of education and the teachers that fulfill that role. Teaching our kids to respect teachers and all that they do on a daily basis is essential for a great student/teacher and parent/teacher relationship, even when the subject is less than your child’s favorite.

It doesn’t have to be a grand celebration. Even doing something simple like any of the following is great way to show you care.

• Get them a card or make them one,
• Have your student write a positive and encouraging handwritten note,
• Get them a small gift,
• Paint or draw them a picture, or
• Make them their favorite cookies or snack

Make sure not to let this year pass by without your teacher or child’s teacher being appreciated. You will be glad you did.

For more ideas and tips for educational success visit our blog.