Dear %%FIRSTNAME(Friend)%%,

It's National Teacher Appreciation Week, and while we can never fully thank teachers enough, today is a chance to honor the role they play in our lives. I hope you'll join me in letting teachers know how important and impactful their work truly is.

If you're like me, you still remember all the teachers who made a difference. The teachers who challenged you and encouraged you to be the person you are now. I wanted to take a moment today to write this letter to thank a few teachers who made an impact on my life.

I appreciate Ms. Maureen, my kindergarten teacher, who told me I could be a leader.

I appreciate Ms. Cunningham and Ms. Britt, my third and fourth grade teachers, who encouraged me to get involved in public speaking.

I appreciate Ms. Powers, my seventh and eighth grade social studies teacher, who as a homework assignment had us watch the '92 presidential debates.

I appreciate Mr. McKim, my high school physics teacher, who got me interested enough in physics I actually took it as an elective in college.

Teachers dedicate their lives to our children, and they often go above and beyond what is required of them. How many teachers have bought coats and hats when their kids were cold? Paid for basic supplies? Stayed late? Devoted nights and weekends to school sports and lesson plans? Ask any group of people if a teacher changed their life and inevitably hands will go up.

This is the gift of a good teacher-- both simple acts of everyday kindness and extraordinary acts of selfless devotion to their students have the power to change a young person's life in ways they may never forget.

Do you remember a teacher who positively influenced your life? We want to hear about them! Tell us about why you appreciate that teacher, and we'll be publishing your quotes online throughout teacher appreciation week.

With gratitude,

Senator Morgan McGarvey