Representatives from Publix GreenWise Market in Lane Parke delivered lunches to Mountain Brook Schools teachers on Thursday, April 29. 

April 30, 2021 — The Mountain Brook Schools Parent Teacher Organization Council partnered with the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce to honor teachers for their hard work throughout the 2020-2021 school year.

The two groups designated April 26-30 as a community-wide Teacher Appreciation Week, with 33 local merchants offering discounts and promotions to MBS teachers. 

“All six Mountain Brook schools have their own Teacher Appreciation Week, but we saw this as an opportunity to celebrate and say thank you at the same time, especially during this very difficult school year,” Mountain Brook High School Spartan PTO President Joanna Hufham said. 

Mountain Brook teachers have overcome many challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic to continue providing their students an effective, challenging, and engaging education. With dedication and nimbleness, they have reimagined their craft while balancing in-person and virtual instruction. 

Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Suzan Doidge embraced the creation of a community-wide Teacher Appreciation Week. Once the PTO Council pitched the idea, Doidge wasted no time in reaching out to local merchants to gauge their interest in participating. 

“The Chamber views the school system as a community partner and teachers as the biggest asset,” Doidge said. “Our teachers have been through a lot with COVID. Any time we can do something to support them, we’re happy to do so.”

On top of the discounts offered by merchants throughout the city, the Chamber donated a $50 Village Gold gift card that was awarded via drawing to one teacher from each school. 

Additionally, Publix GreenWise Market in Lane Parke provided lunch to MBS teachers on Thursday, April 29. 

“In a year when teachers in our system have stepped up to the plate in so many ways to meet the unforeseen needs of our students and families, it is heartwarming to see businesses in our community want to honor and celebrate their incredible efforts,” PTO Council President Mary Virginia Mandell said.