American Education Week

Educator for a Day: History

On Thursday, November 20, 2008, schools nationwide will host Educator for a Day events as part of the National Education Association's American Education Week celebration. Educator for a Day events allow individuals from the community to serve as an educator to get a glimpse of a day in the life of a school employee. The visiting educator performs the duties of the regular educator in a normal day—teaching class, performing lunch and corridor duty, recess supervision, among other responsibilities.

The program, originally developed by the Massachusetts Teachers Association, enhances understanding among educators and community leaders. In addition, it demonstrates to public officials and other decisionmakers, the successes and challenges our teachers face and underscores the need for adequate staffing, materials, and facilities for students.