Fiona Martin (Reid, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

This Friday is World Teachers' Day and, with students in years 2 to 11 returning to school in New South Wales today, I don't think there has ever been a more important time to thank and celebrate our amazing teachers. I particularly want to thank the teachers in my electorate of Reid, who have worked incredibly hard during the lockdown by being that constant virtual support for students, and also for their commitment and dedication. To the teachers in Drummoyne and to the teachers in Abbotsford, Five Dock, Strathfield, Croydon, Burwood, Concord, Homebush, Wentworth Point, Lidcombe and Auburn, I say thank you.

We can imagine the collective sigh of relief this morning when parents across our community packed lunch boxes and backpacks again. Kitchen tables that have been canteens, classrooms and principals' offices for the past four months are now empty. I know that for some kids there has been hesitation and anxiety about returning to the classroom today, and this is completely natural. But I also know that our teachers are well equipped to support students as they ease back into face-to-face learning.

While the past four months have been a disruptive and difficult time for our students, we must remain optimistic. We have great teachers in this country, and I think there wouldn't be a parent out there who doesn't have a new-found appreciation and admiration for the work that they do. So, this Friday, let's thank our teachers for their hard work and for keeping our children connected in what has been an incredibly difficult time.