Unsung Heroes Who Shape Tomorrow: Why Teachers Deserve More Than Just Gratitude

By: Great Lakes

Teachers create an undeniable impact on shaping the lives of our children. They’re awake and at their desks while most of America still sleeps, crafting lesson plans that will spark curiosity in their students. Many teachers find themselves giving even more to teach their children – spending their own money on classroom supplies, staying late to tutor struggling students, and carrying the weight of supporting kids long after the final bell rings. Approximately 3.8 million teachers across the country share this burden of not only educating students, but nurturing children for our future.

For all they give, teachers often find themselves stretching every dollar, making personal sacrifices to serve others. They deserve more than our appreciation – they deserve support that recognizes the profound impact of their daily dedication.

Connected to What Matters Most

Teaching extends far beyond classroom walls. There's the field trip to the science museum where a student has an allergic reaction and parents need immediate contact. The after-school drama rehearsal that runs late, requiring quick coordination with worried families. The moment when a struggling student finally has a breakthrough, and their parent deserves to hear the good news right away.

In these pivotal moments, teachers need more than just any connection – they need reliability they can count on. Verizon's network, recognized by J.D. Power for network excellence 35 consecutive times and awarded by RootMetrics as the Best 5G, Fastest 5G, and Most Reliable 5G network, ensures that when teachers need to reach out, their calls go through.

Empowering Tomorrow's Innovators

While teachers work tirelessly to prepare students for a rapidly evolving world, Verizon is working alongside them. Verizon Innovative Learning HQ is a free resource to all educators, offering resources for more than 450 ready-made lesson plans that include STEM subjects, and micro-credentials to help teachers grow in their leadership. Professional development courses like Refining the Vision & Knowing Ourselves as Leaders or Leading Through Coaching.

For Philip Kern, while he was an educator in Cleveland, Ohio, utilizing the Verizon Innovative Learning HQ tools propelled him to pursue a career in administration. “This experience – 1000% – led me to getting my principal licensure,” said Kern. “I’m helping with lesson planning, finding resources and reviewing standards. I’ve had the experience coaching teachers and trying to make their lives easier.”

These aren't generic worksheets or outdated materials. They're cutting-edge tools developed with trusted educational partners, designed to transform abstract concepts into tangible discoveries. And they're available free to every educator ready to ignite their students' passion for learning.

Recognition That Goes Beyond Words

Nate Kline, a Verizon representative in Independence, Ohio, understands that true appreciation requires action, not just sentiment. When teachers walk into his store, his approach is simple but profound: "The most important thing is to thank them for their service and make them feel welcome," Kline explains. "Teachers do so much to take care of us in everyday life, so we're going to take care of them."

This philosophy translates into real savings – $240 annually on a four-line Unlimited Welcome Plan, plus additional discounts when bundling home and mobile services. Combined with streaming perks that offer 40% savings on services like Netflix and Max, these benefits acknowledge that those who invest in our children's futures deserve financial relief.

Investing in Those Who Invest in Us

Every lesson plan crafted, every late night spent grading papers, every moment of encouragement offered to a discouraged student – these are investments in our collective tomorrow. Teachers give endlessly of themselves, often with little recognition and even less financial reward.

For educators ready to experience the peace of mind that comes with America's most reliable network, plus savings that honor their service, visit your local Verizon store or explore options through the My Verizon app. Because those who dedicate their lives to teaching our children deserve support that matches their commitment.

After all, they're not just making connections in the classroom – they're connecting us all to a brighter future.

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