Thank You to Texas Teachers

May 14, 2015

Last week was Teacher Appreciation Week, and I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to talk about how immensely appreciative I am of teachers.

Texas teachers are helping to make sure that the next generation of Texans are prepared to lead our state. They are making a profound investment in the future of the Lone Star State, and playing an active role in shaping the Texas of tomorrow. But teachers don’t just teach – they inspire, encourage, nurture, motivate, and empower our children. Greg and I want to ensure that every Texas student receives a well-rounded, high-quality education, and enjoy it while doing so. We want to extend our sincerest gratitude for the teachers here in Texas that are making that possible.

I had the pleasure of being a teacher and principal in Texas schools for ten years, and both of my parents were teachers. And while I’m proud of all of the teachers in Texas, I’m especially proud of one in particular – Shanna Peeples, a high school English teacher in Amarillo who was named the 2015 National Teacher of the Year.

Thank you Shanna – and each and every teacher across Texas – for your hard work, your dedication, and your commitment to ensuring that every child in Texas has the opportunity to succeed.