Media Statement
22 October 2009
World Teachers’ Day perfect occasion to say thanks
Students, parents and community members from across Western Australia are sending online ‘thank
you’ messages for their teachers as part of World Teachers’ Day on 30 October 2009.
The Department of Education has set up an online blog so people can post messages for public school
teachers. All of the messages will then be published so teachers can read their students’ comments.
Deputy Director General Schools Margery Evans said World Teachers’ Day was the perfect occasion
to say thank you to a teacher who has made a difference.
“Many students and parents want to show their appreciation to teachers, and the blog is a convenient,
simple way to do this,” Ms Evans said.
“Teachers play a central role in nurturing and guiding children and young people through the lifelong
learning process.
“Not only do teachers educate our children, they support them in their everyday lives.”
Year 5 student Alex was the first student to post a message, to his Applecross Primary School teacher
Jemma Holbrook.
“Thanks Mrs Holbrook for being a great teacher. You are nice and make school fun. You really help me
understand my school work,” wrote Alex.
Alex’s mother Deanne said Mrs Holbrook had been really supportive of Alex throughout the year.
“She is the reason he likes going to school. She has shown a genuine interest in his education and
welfare.”
Ms Evans said Mrs Holbrook is one of many public school teachers who demonstrate tremendous
dedication to their students every day.
“We have teachers all over the State who are motivated to create stimulating and rewarding learning
experiences for their students,” she said.
Former students and members of the community can also post messages to their teachers.
“Many of us can look back and recognise how a favourite teacher helped shape who we are today,”
said Ms Evans.
“Some people do not realise until several years later how much support they received from their
teachers and how they made a positive contribution in their lives. I would also encourage those people
to post an online message.”
For more information on how to post a message visit det.wa.edu.au/teachingwa or Google Teaching
WA.
Media contact: (08) 9264 5723
NEWS 
