This week is American Education Week, and all across the country people are celebrating public education and honoring the people who are making a difference in ensuring that every child receives a quality education.

The first observance of American Education Week took place in 1921 and is always celebrated the week prior to Thanksgiving.

This year throughout the week, different themes will be celebrated to recognize the different roles necessary to make sure children receive access to all the support, tools and time they need to learn.

The week kicks off today, and then Tuesday celebrates the role parents have in their child’s education.

Wednesday is the celebration of paraprofessionals, and on Thursday people are asked to step into the shoes of the different teachers and educators and recognize all they do for their students. Finally, on Friday, the week celebrates the people who are substitute teachers and help keep classes going when teachers are out sick or away.

In Albert Lea, there are many great educators, and we want to thank them for their hard work.

We encourage continued support of top-notch education for our area children.