“Grow Our Own” Week

Proclamation

By the Governor of Alabama

WHEREAS, the Alabama State Department of Education and the Alabama Education Association (AEA) have formed a partnership dedicated to encouraging Alabama’s students to pursue a career in the teaching profession; and

WHEREAS, research shows there will be an even greater demand for highly qualified teachers in the next decade; and

WHEREAS, the Future Teachers of Alabama organization and the TEACH Alabama program are innovative approaches focused on attracting more talented students to careers in the field of education; and

WHEREAS, the Future Teachers of Alabama organization and the TEACH Alabama program are rigorous, progressive, and vital parts of Alabama’s total education system; and

WHEREAS, these programs are committed to providing students with opportunities to gain valuable hands-on experiences through internships, classroom observations, and project-based learning; and

WHEREAS, Future Teachers of Alabama and TEACH Alabama initiated “Grow Our Own” Week to give local school systems statewide the opportunity to promote activities that focus on teaching as a career, highlight the important role of teachers, and encourage students to consider the field of education as a future career choice; and

WHEREAS, the Alabama Education Association and the Alabama State Department of Education will also celebrate the service, dedication, and professionalism of Alabama’s current teachers during this special event:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim February 6th, through February 10th, 2017, as

“Grow Our Own” Week

in the State of Alabama. I encourage local boards of education, business and industry professionals, and all educational organizations statewide to participate in this special celebration through activities that demonstrate the importance of the teaching profession and the opportunities it provides for Alabama’s students to achieve their dreams of academic excellence, personal achievement and future career success.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 1st day of February 2017.

Robert Bentley

Governor