National Teacher Appreciation Week is observed annually during the first full week in May, falling this year between May 7-11. The weeklong celebration is sponsored by the National PTA as a way of strengthening respect for and support of the teaching profession. The National Education Association annually designates the Tuesday of that week (May 8) as National Teacher Day.

Even though these events are observed by many of our school parents and volunteers, it is also a time to recognize our coworkers for their contributions. Reach out to a colleague and share how they have been an inspiration to you as well as their students. Thank you to our teachers and teaching assistants for your tireless efforts and dedication.

If you live in Fulton County and have Comcast cable, you probably have come across the Fulton County Schools cable channel - FCSTV Ch. 24 - at some point while flipping through your television channels. Launched in 2003, the system-run station airs student programs, parenting shows, School Board meetings, and other educational programs of community interest.

Last spring, the Fulton County School System began videosteaming School Board meetings. The popularity of being able to watch school system events from the comfort of a home computer quickly caught on, compelling the Broadcast and Video Technology Department to expand its online programming. The videostreaming web site now mirrors the same 24/7 programming as FCSTV.

The policy, which identifies the Fulton County School System as a drug-free workplace, means that all school employees must notify the school system within five days if they have been charged with DUI or another drug/alcohol charge. Failure to do so may result in personnel action.

The Fulton County School System is home to the brightest and most talented educators in Georgia - and the nation!

Each month teachers and staff members receive awards or other honors that bring pride and recognition to their schools as well as the school system.

The School Board gears up for an important budget work session on May 11, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the system's Administrative Center. The day-long session allows Board members and school system staff to intensively review FY08 budget information and begin drafting a proposed operating budget. A public hearing - open to students, staff, parents, and community - follows the work session at 5 p.m.

The budget process continues with a roundtable/work session on May 22, 5 p.m., at Dunwoody Springs Charter Elementary School. Several additional meetings and public hearings are planned in June. All budget meetings are open to the public, but public comment is only allowed at the hearings.

Deadline approaching for PSC survey. If you have not already done so, don't forget to participate in the Professional Standards Commission (PSC) survey evaluating what teachers like or dislike about teaching. The online survey is available through May.

As an employee of one of the county's largest employers, you may benefit from discounts offered by certain local and national merchants. These programs are approved by the school system's Contracting Department and/or the Partners & Volunteers Office.