Congratulations to the educators in Columbia and Marion County who were recognized this week as the teachers of the year at their respective schools. A good teacher makes all the difference in the world on how much their students learn — and ultimately how much their community prospers. If students are educated well, they will in the long run be successful in life, which will boost where they live.
But it takes a teacher with dedication, intelligence and work ethic to make all that work. Too often in our society teachers are denigrated. We need to create a shift where being a teacher is something that society values, so that top students in colleges are attracted to the profession.
Recognizing outstanding teachers like the two local districts did this week is one way to accomplish that. If you see any of the winning teachers around town, give them your congratulations.