WASHINGTON DC, United States – For the third consecutive year, Calabar High School Alumni Chapters, based overseas, have banded together to show appreciation to the teachers at the institution through a cash donation of more than $1.5 million.

According to a release, the gift came courtesy of the old boys from Washington DC, New York, Atlanta, and Florida. The money will be awarded to teachers, guidance counsellors and support staff at the school during National Teachers Appreciation Week, which began on Monday.

Head of the old boys’ chapter in Washington DC, Michael McPherson, said that it was with “great pride that the chapters got together once again to say thank you to our teachers.”

“They [teachers] are among the most dedicated and caring professionals as they go above and beyond on a daily basis as they influence those formative years of high school,” he added.

The cash award is said to be one part of other initiatives planned for National Teachers Appreciation Week at Calabar. In his remarks, Karl Thompson, president of the Florida chapter borrowed a line from Koffee’s hit single ‘Toast’ as he acknowledged the importance of educators.

“We applaud any activity or programme that celebrates our teachers, so we are happy it came together again this year,” said David Anderson, president of the Atlanta chapter. A sentiment also shared by the New York chapter.

“We hope to provide this token of appreciation every year for years to come. Sometimes it is not about the size of the gift but the fact we are showing that we care and appreciate our teachers for all they do and all that they sacrifice. It is the least we can do,” added McPherson.