To every individual who is employed, or was employed, in public education, and to every individual who supports public education — thank you.

American Education Week, Nov. 14-18, celebrates the efforts of parents, educators, administrators, educational support professionals and substitutes who strive to provide a quality education for all students in the public schools. Recent articles in the newspaper point to the fact that every child can be invested in their education. Communities need to support programs and activities that engage students in developing their potential and need to provide resources for their success.

Today’s students have challenges that far exceed those of previous generations. Everyone in the education community is aware of those obstacles, yet educators do not allow such influences to deter them from providing a nurturing environment that challenges each child intellectually.

As a community, we need to honor each individual who has chosen to work in the public schools as an educator, educational support professional or administrator. This is the week to express gratitude by sending an email or note to the person who is making a difference, or who made a difference, in your life or your child’s.

Susan Grondin, Lewiston