On Monday, Mrs. Rachel Murat was one of many educators invited to the East Wing by First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden, to celebrate both the 2020 and 2021 State Teachers of the Year. Mrs. Murat describes her experience:
"Yesterday was a once in a lifetime experience! We were invited to the East Wing by Dr. Jill Biden to celebrate both the 2020 and 2021 State Teachers of the Year. After a quick tour of the East Wing, we were able to meet and get our picture taken with Dr. Biden in the Kennedy Garden. Once pictures were done, there was a ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House that included remarks from Secretary Cardona, 2020 National Teacher of the Year, Tabatha Rosproy, 2021 National Teacher of the Year Juliana Urtubey, Dr. Jill Biden and President Biden. Following that we were able to get a picture with the President and First Lady. It was a whirlwind of a day and one I'll never forget! It was an honor to represent Maine-Endwell and the teachers of New York at the White House on Monday! Dr. Biden spoke of her grandmother who was a teacher, and her inspiration to become a teacher. She asked us to reflect on our influences and to think about the influence we have on the lives of our students. My thoughts were with my father, who was an educator for 37 years and who we just lost in June as well as with the thousands of Spartans who I have had the honor and privilege of learning from as they have spent time in my classroom and left an indelible mark on my life and who are always in my heart."