This week is National Teacher Appreciation Week, and I want to thank all the teachers who serve our students. Children are the most important citizens of our society because they are our future. They are our upcoming community leaders, scientists, first responders, and tradespeople. To all the men and women who take the time to educate, inform, mentor, and coach our students, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your service is noted and appreciated more than you will ever realize. You are patient, hard-working, dedicated and warm-hearted professionals that mold our children’s lives in the most profound ways.

Strong educators identify the best in a young person, then provide them with encouragement and opportunities to grow. This takes an exponential amount of endurance, persistence and talent.  It is no surprise that this type of investment drains the batteries quickly.

As a former teacher, and someone who tries to get back in the classroom as often as I can, I would like to take a moment to speak directly with my colleagues. You pour yourself into our young people daily, and we must pour into you. I appreciate all that you do to make a positive impact in the lives of our youth. So many of you have taught me how to be a better teacher and for that I will forever be grateful.

I would also like to speak directly to students and parents. If you have a teacher that has made a difference in your life, I ask that you tell their story. Also, consider going up to that teacher and letting them know personally. Encouraging one another can change our entire community. Please take the time to nominate a teacher who has made a difference in your life. You can find the nomination form on my website at reppaquette.com.

On the legislative front, education shouldn’t be a partisan issue, and taking the time to celebrate and thank teachers certainly shouldn’t be either. That is why I joined my Democratic colleague, and former teacher, Representative Matt Koleszar in sponsoring a House Resolution to declare May 6-10, 2019, as Teacher Appreciation Week in the State of Michigan.

As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office if you need assistance dealing with red tape at the state level. My staff and I are happy to help in any way we can, and if you ever have ideas about how we can work to make Michigan better my door is always open.

Brad Paquette R, represents the 78th District, which covers Berrien county.