Long after exams are graded and notebooks are closed, the influence of South’s teachers remains, as teachers do more than just teach, they inspire, Jessica Pritzker, Assistant Instructional Supervisor for the Science Department and Key Club Sponsor, said. Teacher Appreciation Week is a time to recognize the difference teachers make in such a formative time of students’ lives, Pritzker said.

Key Club annually holds events dedicated to celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week, falling this year on May 4-8, Pritzker said. In the 10 years she has been involved with the club, they have done a different act of appreciation each year, Pritzker explained. Additionally, a luncheon was organized by the Parents’ Association for all staff in the lyceum on May 1, German Teacher Laurie Haugh said. From small gestures to large events, teachers enjoy knowing their hard work matters, Haugh added.

“Subject matter is just a vehicle for connection with students,” Haugh said. “It is really about getting to know students and trying to open up their world to new spaces where they can thrive.”

Thanks is often paid by handwritten cards or simply kind words, Pritzker said. One example was when students took time in their PE blocks to write letters for teachers, Haugh said.

“As a teacher, there’s nothing that means more to me than a hand-written note that took some time and thought,” Pritzker said.

You do not need to be a teacher to understand how hard they work, freshman Danny Ciss said. His mother Kathleen Ciss has been teaching for 26 years, the past two in the Special Education Department at North. Teachers put in dedication day in and day out, Ciss added.

“My mom being a teacher has given me a deeper respect and recognition for the work that they do,” Ciss said.

Whether it is a meal from the Parents’ Association, a handwritten note, or thoughtful words spoken, teachers are motivated by knowing their hard work has made a difference to their students, Pritzker said. Students letting their teachers know that they have made a difference really goes a long way, Haugh added.

“When students share the impact you’ve had, it is really powerful to know that you’ve gotten through to them,” Haugh said.