To the editor:

American Education Week spotlights the importance of providing every child in America with a quality public education from kindergarten through college, and the need for everyone to do his or her part in making public schools great.

The annual tagline, "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility" represents the National Education Association's vision of calling upon America to provide students with quality public schools so that they can grow, prosper and achieve in the 21st century.

This week presents all of us with an opportunity to honor individuals who are making a difference in ensuring that every child receives a quality education. American Education Week's celebration days include:

Monday, Nov. 16: Open House Day. From national commemorative events to local events, Americans will celebrate public education.

Tuesday, Nov. 17: Parents Day. Schools will invite parents into the classroom for a firsthand look at what the school day is like for their children.

Wednesday, Nov. 18: Education Support Professionals Day. Individuals who provide invaluable services to schools and teachers are recognized for their outstanding work.

Thursday, Nov. 19: Educator for a Day. Community leaders will be invited to experience the day as educators to get a glimpse at a day in the life of a school employee.

Friday, Nov. 20: Substitute Educators Day. This day honors the educators who are called upon to replace regularly employed teachers.

The SW/WC Service Cooperative has 60 public school members. We are honored to provide a variety of programs and services to them.

We encourage our communities to take time to thank our school boards, our administrators, our teachers, and everyone who works to make Minnesota an education leader in the nation!

Sincerely,

Cliff Carmody, executive director

SW/WC Service Cooperative, Marshall