AROUND 1000 teachers across the Light and Schubert electorates received appreciation certificates last Friday as a part of World Teachers’ Day 2020 celebrations.

Light MP and Schubert candidate Tony Piccolo said the certificates were a symbol of appreciation for the work teachers perform in educating and caring for their students.

Mr Piccolo presented certificates to teachers at Immanuel Lutheran School, Nuriootpa Primary School, Trinity College South and St Patrick’s Technical College.

He said the critical role which teachers play in the education of children and young adults came to the fore this year as the community tried to cope with COVID 19.

“World Teachers’ Day is a day when students, parents and community members can demonstrate their appreciation for the contributions that teachers make to their community,” he said.

The Light MP wrote to all school principals in the two areas inviting them to nominate teachers in their school they would like to see receive a certificate of appreciation.

Internationally, World Teachers’ Day is celebrated on the first Friday in October, however as this usually occurs during Australian school holidays, it is celebrated on the last Friday in October.

Mr Piccolo added support staff and volunteers also play an important part in educating our children and their contribution would be acknowledged and celebrated on other occasions.