Amata Highlights Teacher Appreciation Week

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata is thanking teachers at the start of Teacher Appreciation Week, May 4-8, and released the following statement.

Congresswoman Amata with 2025 Teacher of the Year Mikaela Saelua and her parents Rep Fiu and Catherine Saelua (002)

"Thank you so much to all our dedicated teachers. I am usually able to attend most of our graduations, and I'm always so appreciative of everyone that makes those joyful days possible for our students and parents each year. Many of us can look to back to an excellent teacher who made a difference in our lives, and the teacher often does not even realize the potentially life-changing impact they are making at the time. Teaching can often be a calling or a life's work, and the best teachers have a special ability to explain their topic, recognize the efforts of young people, and often keep a lifelong youthful sense of humor or zeal from spending days around our youth.

"I will always support federal investment in education, school infrastructure, and technology. Our students deserve the best start in life we can give them and then opportunities to consider higher education possibilities. The Members of Congress from the Pacific territories have a bill to establish in-state tuition opportunities for islanders going to universities, and here at home, I've obtained a $3 million designation for ASCC with the increases to the ASG/OIA operations fund. The 2027 appropriations process has just begun and I will keep you informed on the next round of funding.

"This week, we want our teachers to know our respect, appreciation, and love!"

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