That education is the most important of all professions is a message the public should hear and understand. And, as importantly, a message that our educators need to hear as well.

The most direct and enduring way to reach the mind and imagination of the learner is through the mind, imagination and character of the outstanding teacher.

In every endeavour, people make the difference, and just one person has the power to make a profound difference in the lives of so many people.

The need to assure that every child has the opportunity afforded by good teachers is urgent. As urgent as the need to be well nourished and for exactly the same reason. A child's growth depends on it.

Education provides the fullest opportunities for fulfilling ourselves. It is the access to all that a person has yet to learn.

That education is the most important of all professions is a message the public should hear and understand. And, as importantly, a message that our educators need to hear as well.

Good teachers are to education what education is to all other professions—the indispensable element, the sunlight and oxygen, the foundation on which everything else is built.