First Lady Jill Biden made history by hosting the inaugural “Teachers of the Year” State Dinner at the illustrious White House on Thursday evening. Breaking from tradition, this event marked the first time American educators were honored at a State Dinner, celebrating their invaluable contributions to education.
The award went to Missy Testerman from Tennessee, and the State Teachers of the Year from across the country for their excellence in teaching and commitment to students’ learning.
First Lady Jill Biden, adorned in an elegant floor-length sequined black dress embellished with silver and pink floral motifs, made a grand entrance accompanied by Secretary Cardona and Missy Testerman.
Cardona noted that state dinners have “been reserved for kings and queens and presidents and prime ministers.” He remarked tonight’s event shows teachers deserve “A level of national respect that is long overdue.”
In her address, the First Lady paid homage to the invaluable contributions of teachers, extending special recognition to the representatives of teachers’ unions, Becky Pringle and Randi Weingarten.
“We celebrate you because teaching isn’t just a job, it’s a calling and all of you are called to this profession for a reason. You believe that a better world is possible. And you make that world real. And none of that could happen without the support of our unions,” she said.
FLOTUS Jill Biden gives remarks at the Teachers of The Year State Dinner at White House [Photo credit: @SecCardona/X]
Highlighting her confidence in President Joe Biden’s commitment to education, Jill Biden affirmed she knew he would be, “the best education president.”
Biden told teachers “let’s raise a glass to you” and did a “cheers” with a glass of white wine.
Biden then turned her attention to Testerman, the national teacher of the year, who gave brief remarks. Testerman talked about how teaching is the most important profession “because we create every profession.”
Biden said she’s honored to have Missy representing their profession. “As her students say: ‘She makes everyone feel important.’ ‘She helps us feel more welcome.’ ‘She made sure I was taken care of.’ ‘She makes me smile all the time.’ ‘She’s the best.’
Marine One could be heard landing as Testerman finished her speech, concluding it in a toast for Jill Biden.
Earlier in the evening the honorees and guests walked through booksellers – the traditional state dinner arrival route. They posed for photos in front of a wooden step-and-repeat set up to resemble bookshelves. The backdrop was adorned with “Teachers of the Year State Dinner” in white cursive lettering. Irises were placed in vases made from pencils.
As a classroom teacher for over 30 years, Jill Biden continues to teach English and writing at Northern Virginia Community College, where she has been a professor since 2009. This is the fourth year Dr. Biden has welcomed the National and State Teachers of the Year for a celebration at the White House.
What’s On The Menu?
*First Course*
Lady Apple, Walnut, and Celery Root Salad
Fennel Carpaccio
Lemon Lavender Emulsion
*Main Course*
Lobster Ravioli
Shaved Artichoke Crisps
Parsley Sauce
*Dessert Trio*
Strawberries and cream
Honey-poached apple mousse
Coconut custard cake with nectarines
*Wine*
Stonestreet Chardonnay “Estate” 2019
Penner-Ash Pinot Noir “Willamette Valley” 2021
Jacqueline Leonne Brut
Entertainment
Musical selections by The United States Army Chorus with the Army and Air Force Strings.
