This week, we honor and celebrate teachers across the country who devote their time to prepare America's future. The saying "behind every successful student is a teacher who believed in them" rings true every day. Teaching isn't just a job - it's a calling that many have answered with their heart. Thank you to all the teachers who make a difference every day!

Teacher Appreciation Week always reminds me of my mentor Barbara Scherrer, who was my 6th grade teacher and the reason I am in politics. Barbara began teaching in Burlington in 1955 and always encouraged her students to take an active role in the community. In 1978, Barbara encouraged me to go to my first political rally, which was for GOP Gubernatorial candidate Lee Dreyfus. That rally sparked my interest in government and politics and I will always be thankful to her for that. Above, I was honored to have her in attendance at my inauguration as Speaker of the Assembly on January 7th, 2013.