School Board Proclaims November 18 as Substitute Educator’s Day (11-15-22)

CONTACT: Silvia K. Martinez, 213-241-8333
Silvia.K.Martinez@lausd.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 15, 2022

School Board Proclaims November 18 as Substitute Educator’s Day

Los Angeles (Nov. 15, 2022) - The Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution today sponsored by Board Member Schmerelson, and co-sponsored by Board Members Dr. George J. McKenna III and Jackie Goldberg, proclaiming Nov. 18, 2022 as Substitute Educator’s Day. 

Instituted by the National Education Association (NEA), Substitute Educator’s Day provides an opportunity to recognize, appreciate and build respect for these essential professionals of the teaching community, who act as an essential bridge to ensure continued quality education for our students.

“Our Substitute Educators are here to keep the lessons flowing and keep the students on task when the teacher cannot be in the classroom,” Board Member Scott M. Schmerelson said. “They are indispensable in preparing generation after generation of college- and career-ready graduates. We just couldn’t do it without them. 

“The influence of a teacher extends well beyond the walls of the classroom,” Los Angeles Unified Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. “We are grateful for our substitute teachers who step in to support our schools and serve as a bridge to continue to provide students with high-quality instruction. We celebrate their resilience, passion and dedication to education.”  

“Our Substitute Educators provide crucial support at our schools and allow for our students’ learning to continue regardless of the circumstance,” Board President Kelly Gonez said. “We’re proud to honor and celebrate their continued service and dedication to our students, schools and the community.” 

“We are so grateful for the talented and dynamic substitute teachers who play an essential role in ensuring the continuity of our kids’ education,” Board Vice President Nick Melvoin said. “While the tireless efforts and incredible flexibility of our substitutes can often go unnoticed, we are proud to recognize their hard work and commit to supporting their growth and success in our school communities.” 

"I was rarely absent as a classroom teacher, but I was immensely grateful to the substitute teachers who stepped in to ensure the continuity of instruction for my students,” Board Member Dr. George J. McKenna III said. “I know that substitute teachers are special people who are adaptable, flexible and prepared to fill a variety of roles in our classrooms for our students at a moment's notice. Thank you to our substitute teachers for being vital partners in educating our students." 

“We thank all those who maintain our classrooms staffed and supported as substitute teachers,” Board Member Mónica García said. “Every day, substitute teachers make a contribution to learning that is permanent.”

“As teachers, we always knew the value of substitute teachers,” Board Member Jackie Goldberg said. “But during this pandemic, their value multiplied many times as many agreed to teach full-time when we were in a teacher shortage. I thank all who are willing to meet different new students each day, and help see to it that their educational activities are uninterrupted even when their teacher is absent.” 

“I am proud to support the annual recognition of Nov. 18 as Substitute Educators Day in LA Unified,” Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin said. “I am grateful for our substitute teachers for the valuable and essential role they play in maintaining continuity, modeling flexibility and stepping up for our students and school communities in often unpredictable ways. We appreciate you today and everyday!” 

“Substitute teachers ensure that students continue learning when their day-to-day teacher is absent,” Student Board Member Nathaniel Shin said. “They model adaptability and contribute to schools running smoothly by educating students across grades, subjects, and campuses. I am proud to recognize their contributions on National Substitute Educators’ Day.” 

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