FREDERICTON (GNB) – Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Dominic Cardy issued the following statement today in recognition of National Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week, Feb. 9-15:

National Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week is an occasion to recognize the vital contribution of all teachers, school and support staff to the sustainability of New Brunswick's education system. Teachers, early childhood educators, management, support and administrative staff keep our public schools running smoothly and ensure the well-being of the children and students in our communities.

Our province is lucky to have such dedicated, competent professionals who carry out their work with so much compassion. As New Brunswickers, we are fortunate to be able to count on generous and creative teaching staff who enthusiastically deliver quality learning to enrich students’ academic experience and motivate young people to develop a desire to learn that will follow them throughout their lives.

The commitment and determination of teachers, early childhood educators and other school staff deserves our support and encouragement. That is why we are working to improve New Brunswick's education system to provide them with the tools and resources they need to give our children the opportunity to receive a first-class education.

I thank all the teachers, early childhood educators, staff and leadership of the province's education system for making our schools such fulfilling and rewarding learning environments. We are so grateful for all the outstanding and innovative work carried out in schools every day by our team of highly trained and motivated professional educators and support staff. Thank you for all that you do.