Take some time to thank a teacher. They need it this year. With $260 million cut from the state's education budget, hundreds of teachers are losing their jobs. Paraprofessionals, counselors, reading interventionists and other support staff positions will also be eliminated. This means larger class sizes with less help. Before the recession, Colorado spent $1400 less per pupil than the national average. Due to the recent cuts, add another $400 less per pupil and brace for more cuts to come next year. With Colorado being 48th in the nation for education spending per capita, taxpayer commitment to public schools has its challenges for education in this state. Yet, teachers are expected to raise test scores and improve their effectiveness with more students, less support, and fewer resources. You can understand why many feel beaten down.

In my world, veteran teachers deserve special thanks. Those I know have devoted their lives to the children of our community and the generations they have taught are better for their service. Recent talk about replacing our experienced teachers with youthful, energetic novices as an answer to solve all that ails education does not come as a surprise to the veteran teachers; it just makes them sad. Ask the veteran teachers what really works, and they will surely tell you...access to a quality preschool and full-day kindergarten for every child, small class sizes, a balanced curriculum rich with art, music and physical education, teachers with strong classroom management and expert knowledge of their subject areas, meaningful professional development, teachers who build supportive relationships with their students, counselors, parent involvement and student motivation, clear and high expectations for all students, and opportunities for college and vocational education. Taking more money out of the classrooms and putting it into testing corporations and fancy administrative data systems are not high on their list of things that matter. Seek advice from a wise, experienced teacher, honor their seasoned knowledge, and partner up some of those young, inexperienced, Teach for America kids with these great teachers.

Let's go back to the "thank a teacher bumper sticker revival" idea. I know a successful printer who graduated from a public school, is real creative with colors and design, and is a good speller. I will ask him to create a new design for an old bumper sticker that simply says, "If you can read this, THANK A TEACHER." I'll order a bunch and give them to those who think teachers deserve some renewed respect and recognition. If you see one of those bumper stickers, honk and give a friendly wave. Small acts can often make a powerful difference.