Derby High School honors the teachers who work hard for us 

By Za’niyah Russell ’27

From May 4 to May 8, students and staff at our school celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week by recognizing the hard work and dedication the teachers and staff put in. Throughout the week, activities took place during school. Teachers were honored with a series of gifts, activities, and snacks.

Each day included different events to recognize the hard work and dedication of teachers and staff members. The week began with gift card raffles on Monday, followed by a breakfast buffet hosted by the BOE on Tuesday and an ice cream sundae bar hosted by the PTO on Wednesday. Then on Thursday, teachers and staff enjoyed a nacho bar luncheon, and on the last day, Friday, students wrote appreciation notes to thank teachers for everything they do. The gift card winners were Mrs. Rice, Mrs. Reilly, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Walker, Mr. Sigona, Ms. Camacho, and Mr. Sweribitowicz. The gifts were to local businesses and restaurants.

During the week, students even had the chance to turn their teachers into walking works of art. Temporary tattoos were sold in the commons during both lunch waves from Monday, May 4, to Wednesday, May 6. Students could purchase tattoos for any participating teacher, including Mr. Coplin, Mrs. Mesavage, Mr. Nicolari, Mrs. Sicona, Mr. Nutcher, Ms. Gregoire, Ms. Camacho, Mr. Adams, Mr. Piazza, Ms. Hoffman, Ms. Chevarella, Ms. Ali, Mrs. Reilly, Ms. Hyde, Ms. Contreras, Ms. Borges, Ms. Socha, Ms. Langworth, Mr. Daly, and Mr. Butterworth.

Then, on Thursday, May 7, students got to see the creative designs come to life as teachers displayed their tattoos throughout the school day. The event was meant to celebrate teachers in a fun way by bringing staff and students together.

Overall, Teacher Appreciation Week gave students a chance to show teachers and staff how much their hard work really means to the school. The celebrations made the week fun and enjoyable.