WAKE FOREST, N.C., May 5, 2008 – Community Chaplains of America are laypeople who provide care for others in places they work, play and rest – schools, nursing homes, coffee shops and more – each day. In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week and, specifically, Teacher Appreciation Day on May 6, as declared by the National Education Association, below are 10 simple suggestions from Community Chaplains of America to show your appreciation and care for an educator:

• Make a homemade “thank you” card. Let the teacher’s student show his or her own appreciation, creativity and personality with a personal card thanking the teacher.
   
• Write a note. Words are powerful, especially when they come from a parent. In the age of e-mails and text messages, handwritten notes show that you took time and effort to show you care.
   
• Bring flowers. Whether bought at the grocery store or picked from your own garden, flowers are sure to brighten a teacher’s day and desk.
   
• Celebrate favorites. Find out what the teacher’s favorites are and commemorate them. Wear their favorite color, bring their favorite food or sing them their favorite song.
   
• Make a donation. Determine an organization that the teacher supports and make a contribution in his or her name.
   
• Stock the classroom. Buy basic school supplies that the teacher can use in his or her classroom.
   
• Help organize. Offer to help the teacher clean and organize his or her classroom.
   
• Capture memories. Compile any photos you may have from your child’s classroom or school activities that the teacher has been a part of and creative a photo album or mini scrapbook.
   
• Award their efforts. Nominate the teacher for an award such as a local or national “Teacher of the Year” or simply honor him or her with your own award.
   
• Pray. Say a quick prayer for the teacher and thank God for his or her service.

For more information on Community Chaplains of America, visit www.chaplain.com.
 

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