Jill Biden has some fresh advice to offer the country’s top educators.
When they visit the White House later this year, educators will be the guests of honor at a state dinner. This marks the first time that this diplomatic tradition, typically reserved for foreign heads of state or government, will recognize educators. The first lady, who is also a teacher, shared this information.
During a nationally televised appearance on Wednesday, Biden surprised Missy Testerman of Tennessee, the recently crowned National Teacher of the Year, by making the announcement.
“I have been a teacher for over 30 years, just like Missy,” President Biden stated, acknowledging their shared passion for education. “Teachers are our true heroes, and today, I am delighted to be here to honor Missy and all the teachers who make a difference in the lives of their students.” With genuine enthusiasm, he continued, “But before I share my special announcement, Missy, let me express my heartfelt appreciation for your dedication and commitment to shaping young minds. You truly embody the spirit of teaching.”
During an interview on the set of “CBS Mornings,” President Biden announced plans to host a state dinner for teachers at the White House. He expressed his excitement by saying, “When you come to the White House, we are going to have a state dinner for the teachers. You’ll have to pick your dress. So it’s the first time ever.” This gesture highlights the administration’s appreciation for the significant role teachers play in shaping the future of the nation.
Testerman expressed his enthusiasm, stating that it would be “absolutely amazing.”
She expressed her deep gratitude to Biden, stating, “I am truly moved by your dedication to teaching. It is remarkable to witness your commitment to education, even as the first lady of the United States. You are the first to hold this position while actively teaching, and I appreciate that we both understand the immense pleasure that comes from being involved in the field of education.”
According to her, the news will be met with immense excitement by the other state teachers of the year. She expressed her gratitude for this gesture on behalf of all of them.
One of my favorite events at the White House is hosting the nation’s top teachers,” said Biden, an English and writing professor at a Northern Virginia Community College. The date for the teachers’ dinner has not been announced yet, but it is expected to take place on May 1 when the teachers visit Washington, according to a White House official.
A black-tie state dinner usually honors the leader of a friendly nation with close ties to the United States, highlighting the strong relationship between the two countries.
President Joe Biden and the first lady have two upcoming state dinners on their schedule. The first dinner will be hosted for Japan on April 10, followed by another one for Kenya on May 23.
During her time as first lady, Michelle Obama, who was dedicated to enhancing children’s health and nutrition, organized multiple kids’ state dinners.
The Council of Chief State School Officers is responsible for selecting the state teachers of the year as well as the national teacher of the year. In 2024, Testerman, along with teachers from Alaska, Georgia, and New Jersey, emerged as finalists for the prestigious national award.
