While the landscape of our education systems has gone through many changes in recent years – from increased state support for private schools and charter schools, to ongoing efforts at the federal level to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education – there is one thing that remains true; our teachers deserve appreciation and respect.

Educators play an important role in our society, providing guidance and advice, often not just in the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic, but also in possible pathways for youth to accomplish their goals.

Tuesday was recognized as National Teacher Day, and this week – the first full week of May – is Teacher Appreciation Week. It’s a time to recognize the contributions of teachers in all of our lives, and to remember the important role they have in our communities.

Teachers are charged with leading classrooms of children through a collection of lessons each school day, providing opportunities to learn subjects including history, civics, math, writing, spelling, language arts. Some are tasked with guiding us in life skills, while others focus on our health and fitness.

They are coaches, scientists, musicians, historians, advisors, and more.

Now, think about where we would be without them. We’ve all, undoubtedly, had that teacher who inspired us to follow our path in life; the one who noticed our interests, who put in the extra time, who encouraged us to follow our pursuits.

What would your life be like without them? Would you have followed the same career path? Would you have worked as hard to accomplish your goals?

No matter the school setting, teachers impact our lives in ways we probably don’t always realize or appreciate.

This week serves as a reminder that, without teachers, our lives would be very different. Take this opportunity to show your appreciation for what they do, for you, and for others.