Teachers' Day is one of the most anticipated holidays in Polish schools. It is a unique opportunity to thank teachers, educators and all education workers for their daily work, commitment and patience in educating young people. In this article, we will look at when is Teachers' Day , who has the day off and what gifts can be given to teachers.
When is Teachers' Day?
Teachers' Day , or National Education Day, is celebrated every year on October 14. This is a date commemorating the establishment of the Commission of National Education – the first ministry of education in Europe, established in 1773. On this occasion, all education workers in Poland celebrate, and it is a great time to express gratitude to them for their daily efforts.
In 2024, Teachers' Day falls on Monday, October 14. This is important information for teachers, students and parents, as it affects the organization of work in schools and educational institutions.
Do teachers have time off on Teachers’ Day?
According to the Teachers' Charter, October 14 is a day off from classes. This means that teachers will not teach standard classes on this day. However, this does not mean that schools are completely closed or that teachers have a day off.
On Teachers’ Day, teachers are still obliged to fulfil other duties resulting from the statutory tasks of the school, such as:
- care and educational activities and classes,
- preparation for classes,
- professional development,
- participation in pedagogical councils,
- other organizational work.
In addition, in accordance with the regulation of the Minister of National Education, the school principal may establish additional days free from didactic and educational activities during the school year. In primary schools, this may be up to 8 days, and in high schools, technical schools and vocational schools up to 10 days. Information about these days must be provided to students, parents and teachers by September 30 of the given school year.
Teachers' Day Gifts
Traditionally, Teachers' Day is an opportunity for students and parents to show gratitude and respect for teachers by giving them symbolic gifts. However, in recent years, there have been some concerns about what gifts teachers can accept.
According to the guidelines of the Ministry of Justice and the Dajemy Dzieciom Siłę Foundation, teachers cannot accept money or expensive gifts from students or their parents. This would pose a potential threat to the safety of children and could be interpreted as an attempt to illegally influence grades or relationships.
However, teachers may accept occasional gifts related to school holidays, such as flowers, small gifts or group contributions. It is important to maintain a reasonable proportion and avoid situations that could raise doubts.
Ways to Celebrate Teachers' Day
Although Teachers’ Day is a day off from regular classes, many schools hold special events to honor teachers for their work. These often include:
- solemn appeals,
- concerts or performances prepared by students,
- integration meetings for teachers,
- presenting awards and distinctions to exceptional educators,
- workshops or training courses that help teachers improve their skills,
- family picnics or other joint activities with the entire school community.
Initiatives like these are a great way to appreciate teachers and build community and mutual respect between students, teachers and parents.
Summary
When is Teachers' Day? Teachers' Day , celebrated on October 14, is a unique opportunity to appreciate the work of teachers in Poland. Although there are no regular classes on this day, teachers still have other duties to fulfill. For students and parents, it is a good time to thank teachers for their efforts by giving them symbolic gifts - of course, within the limits of common sense. Many schools organize special events on this occasion to honor teachers for their commitment to raising the young generation. This holiday reminds us of the huge role that teachers play in shaping a better future for all of us.
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