Celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week 2026!

Arkansas Democrats are releasing the following statement to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week.

Arkansas Democrats Chair COL (RET). Marcus Jones said:

"To every teacher in Arkansas - thank you. You show up early, stay late, buy supplies out of your own pocket, and hold the classroom together no matter what's happening in the world outside it. Through your hard work and commitment, you're shaping Arkansas's future.

You deserve more than a thank-you week. You deserve pay that reflects the hours you work, and classroom supplies you don't have to buy yourself. You deserve the resources you need to adequately serve every student in your classroom.

You deserve state leaders who treat you like the professionals you are. You deserve legislators who prioritize our public schools, which 95% of Arkansas kids attend - rather than sending our tax dollars to private schools. Instead of spending $300+ Million on school vouchers, we could give every public school teacher an $8,000 raise. Our tax dollars would be far better spent if we did.

In so many Arkansas towns, the public school is the heart of the community- and you keep it beating. We are so grateful for the time and dedication you put into your work."