Celebrating World Teachers' Day 2024 

On this World Teachers' Day, we come together to honour the invaluable contributions of teachers in the Louis Riel School Division and the role of all teachers in transforming education and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 4. 

Valuing Teachers' Voices

The theme of this year's United Nations (UN) celebration emphasizes the importance of valuing teachers’ knowledge, voice, and participation in decision-making processes. 

Over the past few centuries and especially the last few decades, a formal education has gone from being rare to prevalent, as seen by the dramatic improvements in school enrolment and literacy rates.

Yet, many challenges persist. The recent UNESCO Global Report on Teachers (2024) highlights a global shortage of educators and rising attrition rates. Factors such as poor working conditions, uncompetitive remuneration, heavy workloads, and lack of social recognition contribute to these issues. 

To address these challenges, fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, and professional autonomy is essential. By recognizing their voices and autonomy, we can empower teachers to drive meaningful educational change and advocate for greater equity and social justice. 

Acknowledging Educational Support Staff 

While the UN may not officially recognize the contributions of educational support staff as part of the day’s celebration, we consider their efforts as essential. Our educational support staff in schools and the board office play a crucial role in the effective functioning of our 40 schools. Their dedication and hard work ensure that teachers can focus on delivering quality education and that students receive the support they need to thrive. 

We acknowledge the key partnership between teachers and educational support staff, understanding that their combined efforts are fundamental to the success of our public school system. 

Moving Forward Together 

As we celebrate World Teachers' Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to supporting and uplifting the entire educational profession. By investing in social dialogue structures and processes, we can better ensure that all educational staff feel respected, valued, and equipped to shape the future of education. 

To all our teachers and staff in LRSD, thank you for your dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to our students and communities. Your contributions are the cornerstone of educational and social transformation. To all our families and educational partners, let us continue to work collaboratively to create an environment where all staff can thrive and make a lasting impact. 

Happy World Teachers' Day! 

Christian Michalik