Guest blog post by 2026-2027 National Education Committee Chair Debra Rumery
 
American Education Week celebrates public awareness and support for education and concerns over illiteracy. Another important purpose is to recognize that educators, families, support staff, school boards, administrators, and legislators all have a part in creating safe, just, and equitable schools. It’s important to thank all those who support a student’s education, including support staff — from the cooks to the office staff to custodial staff to bus drivers — they all have a hand in a student’s education.
 
How did it start?
 
After World War I, the National Education Association and The American Legion were concerned about the high rate of illiteracy in WWI draftees. The first American Education Week was held Dec. 4-10, 1921, co-sponsored by the NEA and The American Legion. In 1922, the U.S. Department of Education became a co-sponsor. In 1922, the Office of Education joined as a co-sponsor, and, in 1938, the Parent Teacher Association joined.
 
When is American Education Week?
 
Annually, American Education Week is the first full week before Thanksgiving. This year, the dates are Nov. 16-20. 
 
Daily Schedule and Themes
• Monday, Nov. 16 – Kickoff Day: School activities, student essays, and poetry to launch the week.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17 – Family Day: Parent classroom visits and memory-sharing events.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18 – Education Support Professionals (ESP) Day: Appreciation events and food delivery for support staff.
• Thursday, Nov. 19 – Educator for a Day: Community member and leader visits, shadowing, and career dress-up.
• Friday, Nov. 20 – Substitute Educators Day: Recognition for substitute teachers along with advocacy for fair wages and health benefits.
 
Ideas to participate:          

• Thank a teacher, staff member, or education professional by providing treats — such as cookies, apples, a fruit basket, gift cards — for the staff, along with a thank-you note
• Attend school events and visit your schools
• Get involved in school initiatives/parent-teacher conferences
• Host a breakfast or luncheon
• Place a thank-you ad in your local newspaper or a letter to the editor
• Volunteer to be a celebrity reader for a classroom