American Education Week

American Education Week

Dear Fellow Educators,

Happy American Education Week! Today marks the start of a weeklong celebration of public education here in the U.S. Every year since 1921, we pause to express our sincerest gratitude for the many people who make the education process possible for the future of our country – our children. This special week, observed right before Thanksgiving, is the perfect time to honor the heritage of every American to learn.

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A bit of history:
December 4-10, 1921 became the first American Education Week, with the NEA and the American Legion as co-sponsors.In 1922, the U.S. Department of Education became a co-sponsor. Today, there are 12 co-sponsors: the NEA, the U.S. Department of Education, the National PTA, the American Legion, the American Association of School Administrators, The National School Boards Association, The American Federation of Teachers, the Council of Chief State School Officers, The National School Public Relations Association, the National Association of State Boards of Education, The National Association of Elementary School Principals, and the National Association of Secondary School Principals.American Education Week is held each year the week prior to Thanksgiving.The Wednesday of AEW is set aside to honor those men and women who work as Educational Support Professionals (ESPs).

American Education Week—November 15-19, 2021—will present all Americans with a wonderful opportunity to celebrate public education and honor individuals who are making a difference in ensuring that every child receives a quality education.

2021's theme will be reflected in special observances each day of the weeklong celebration:

  • Monday, November 15: Kickoff Day
    Nationwide Kickoff. Across the country, schools will celebrate excellence in education by hosting kickoff events and activities.
  • Tuesday, November 16: Parents Day
    Schools will invite parents into the classroom for a firsthand look at what the school day is like for their children.
  • Wednesday, November 17: Education Support Professionals Day
    Education Support Professionals keep schools running and students safe, healthy and ready to learn.
  • Thursday, November 18: Educator for a Day
    Community leaders will be invited to experience the day as educators and experience the challenges of teaching and the needs of students.
  • Friday, November 19: Substitute Educators Day
    Substitute educators play a vital role in the maintenance and continuity of daily education.