On World Teachers’ Day, three educators pay tribute to the school mentors who changed their lives
On World Teachers’ Day, we celebrate the teachers who inspired and uplifted us – as new data shows 87 per cent of Aussies believe educators deserve more recognition.
Teachers have a tough job, but the nation backs them to get it done.
As Australian schools celebrate World Teachers’ Day today, new data from the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) shows nearly nine in 10 Australians believe teachers deserve more recognition.
On Friday, Australians are encouraged to show their support by snapping a selfie in their favourite hat as part of the ‘Hats Off To Teachers’ celebrations for World Teachers’ Day.
Other potential hat-themed celebrations include a Mad Hatter’s tea party, paper hat crafts in class or a hats and snags barbecue.
“World Teachers’ Day is such a fun way to show our appreciation to teachers and it’s great to see people having fun with it,” AITSL chief executive Tim Bullard said.
“Teachers wear so many hats and quality teaching shapes who we become, from sparking curiosity to guiding us through life.
“World Teachers’ Day matters because it reminds us to recognise that impact. I think we’re really feeling that wave of appreciation right across the country today.”
Frankston High School alumnus and Real Schools founder Adam Voigt took the opportunity to shout out his senior maths teacher, Ms Mazlo.
“She’s the reason I became a teacher,” Mr Voigt said.
“Ms Mazlo showed me that teaching is about pushing young people on the steepest possible life trajectory.
“She is pure inspiration and belligerence – she lived and breathed that the best teachers are firm and fair no matter what.”
Mount Alexander College alumna and student teacher Tahlia Dowell praised her inspirational senior media teacher, Ms Stephens.
“Ms Stephens was far more than just a teacher,” Ms Dowell said.
“She was a home away from home, a big warm hug on tough days, and the loudest cheer in the crowd when you needed support most.
“She was that for me – Ms Stephens single-handedly got me through high school.”
Inclusive education co-ordinator at St Francis of Assisi primary school Kristy Everding still reflects on the impact of her year 2 teacher, Mrs Ahearn.
“Her example shaped everything I value as an educator,” Ms Everding said.
“Mrs Ahearn helped me see myself as a capable learner, inspiring a career grounded in inclusion and advocacy.
“When learning felt overwhelming, she recognised my struggles and supported me with patience and empathy.
“Her belief in my potential ignited my lifelong passion for inclusive education and the importance of meeting every child where they are.”
AITSL provides a range of resources to help schools and communities recognise the important work teachers do every day, and its research has found seven in 10 Australians still remember a teacher who had a lasting, positive impact on their life.
Who was your influential teacher? Comment below to shout out an outstanding educator.
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Originally published as On World Teachers’ Day, three educators pay tribute to the school mentors who changed their lives
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