WHEREAS, teachers serve as the cornerstone of the Commonwealth's future, dedicating their knowledge, skill, and compassion to inspiring the next generation of leaders, innovators, and engaged citizens; and

WHEREAS, teachers cultivate in students a lifelong love of learning, fostering curiosity, intellectual resilience, and the creative and critical thinking skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world; and

WHEREAS, educators across Virginia demonstrate an unwavering commitment to student success, approaching academic and personal challenges with professionalism, innovation, and care, both within the classroom and through countless hours of support beyond the school day; and

WHEREAS, teachers guide students through every stage of their educational journey, nurturing foundational early learning skills in young children and empowering older students as they pursue post-secondary pathways, including higher education, military service, workforce training, and other meaningful opportunities after graduation; and

WHEREAS, the strength, prosperity, and long-term vitality of the Commonwealth depend upon a well-educated and civically engaged citizenry, and teachers play an indispensable role in preparing students to contribute positively to their communities and to the shared future of Virginia; and

WHEREAS, Teacher Appreciation Week provides a dedicated opportunity for the Commonwealth to recognize, honor, and celebrate the invaluable contributions of teachers across Virginia, and to express profound gratitude for their service, dedication, and enduring impact on the lives of students and families; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize May 4-8, 2026, as TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.