Albany, NY – Joined by her statewide colleagues in the legislature, Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-119) today proudly celebrates Teacher Appreciation Day, as the New York State Assembly passed her sponsored Resolution K1265, memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 5, 2026, as Teacher Appreciation Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Teacher Appreciation Day.

“The cornerstones of our communities and the architects of our future, today, we pause to recognize and honor the extraordinary educators across New York State who pour their hearts into shaping the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and citizens,” Assemblywoman Buttenschon said. “Their dedication goes far beyond the classroom or the school day, they are mentors, role models, and champions for every child they serve.”

In honor of New York State’s dedicated educators, Teacher Appreciation Day recognizes that our teachers do far more than impart knowledge, they inspire curiosity, instill values, and help guide our children as they begin to understand who they are and who they want to become. They serve as listeners, explorers, motivators, and mentors, who continue to positively influence their students long after the tests are over and the classrooms are left behind.

“Each of us can think of at least one teacher who made a lasting impact, someone who offered guidance, encouragement, and wisdom at exactly the right time. For me, that person was my father,” recalled the Assemblywoman. “He was an eighth grade social studies teacher, and every day he would come into his classroom and write ‘God Bless America’ on the board, imparting unto all of us his love for this nation. Like me, somewhere out there, a student is now thinking fondly of their teacher, grateful for a word of encouragement, a lesson that stuck, or simply for being seen. To every teacher I would like to say, while you may never always know the difference you make, your students will never forget, you are their person.”

For decades, the National Parent-Teacher Association has designated the Tuesday of the first full week of May as Teacher Appreciation Day, a tradition that found global resonance in 1994 when more than 100 countries joined together to establish World Teacher's Day on October 5th. That worldwide recognition speaks to what New York has always known, that teachers are the cornerstone of a thriving society, educating and nurturing students to become responsible citizens, critical thinkers, and lifelong learners prepared to compete in a global marketplace. Through Resolution K01265, the New York State Assembly reaffirms its unwavering commitment to honoring those who keep American democracy alive by laying the foundation for good citizenship, today and every day.