Barrington Thanks Local Educators For Teacher Appreciation Week

BARRINGTON, RI — It's National Teacher Appreciation Week, observed every year from May 1-7.

There's no better time to let the teachers in Barrington who show up for your kids every day know how much you appreciate them, especially since the last two years have been tough for educators across Rhode Island and the United States.

Recently, educators have dealt with teacher and staff shortages, student behavior problems and increasing polarization surrounding what should be taught.

At the same time, teachers often dig into their own bank accounts to pay for classroom supplies. An Economic Policy Institute analysis three years ago found the average teacher spent $459 a year on classroom supplies. The highest inflation in 40 years hasn't helped.

With all of this in mind, Patch took to Facebook to give Barrington parents an opportunity to show local teachers how much they are appreciated. One parent shared with Patch a shout-out for Barrington educators at all grade levels.

From Parent Odessa Lee Jefferson

"All of the teachers in Barrington are amazing," Jefferson told Patch. "I have children at the elementary, middle, and high school here. Since moving here from the Bronx during the pandemic, my children have done nothing but academically excel! Mrs. Baxter, Mrs. Poland (retired), and Ms. Mazo to name a few."