WORLD TEACHERS’ DAY: what’s it all about?

It’s hard to believe that World Teachers’ Day will celebrate its 19th anniversary this year. But the history of World Teachers’ Day goes back much further than 19 years. In fact, it was on October 5,1966, that the Special Intergovernmental Conference on the Status of Teachers, in Paris, made the “Recommendation Concerning the Status of Teachers.” Representatives of UNESCO and the International Labour Organization signed the recommendation, but it was not until almost three decades later that UNESCO recognized its importance by designating October 5 as World Teachers’ Day, a day devoted to appreciating teachers the world over.

Since its inception in 1994, World Teachers’ Day has grown into a celebration of and for teachers in over 100 countries around the world. Through activities ranging from students writing letters to their favourite teachers to national holidays in some countries, the world community shows its appreciation for the vital contributions that teachers make to societies everywhere.

For the second year in a row, UNESCO and Education International have chosen a poster designed by t he Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF) as its international poster—the concentric circles and the colourful figures on the poster symbolize the long-reaching influences of teachers. This year, CTF selected a theme unique to Canada: “Teachers: Pillars of Democracy.” Because teachers work hard every day to ensure that students understand their rights and responsibilities as Canadian citizens, the theme underscores the pivotal role teachers play in promoting democracy and educating students about its importance.

“Teachers are vital—they’re essential, not only for promoting democracy but protecting it as well,” says CTF President Dianne Woloschuk. “Teachers are strong and resilient, and supporting them as they stand up for democracy both in the classroom and on national stages is key to positive change.” The Alberta Teachers’ Association wishes to pay tribute today to the thousands of teachers in classrooms all over Alberta who make such a positive difference in the lives of their students. Today is your day—celebrate it!