Troy Mayor Jimmy Lunsford signed a proclamation Wednesday declaring Nov. 17 Retired Teachers Day in Troy.

In so doing, he encouraged Troy’s citizens to join together in paying tribute to all retired educators.

“Education is the foundation of our society and is the most critical element in the progress and enlightenment of our state and nation,” Lunsford said. “The educators in our education system have carried the torch of knowledge and opened doors to the challenge and excitement of learning for countless young people.”

Lunsford said that, because of their deep and abiding love of children, educators have displayed a commitment to their students and to their profession.

“It is appropriate that a day be set aside for citizens to express their thanks and convey their appreciation for the outstanding service the retired educators of Alabama have provided and continue to provide for the betterment of human lives and for society,” the mayor said.

Troy City C=ouncilman Jason Reeves presented the mayor’s proclamation to the members of the executive council of the Pike County Association of Retired Educators at the Troy Recreation Center Wednesday morning.

Reeves expressed his appreciation to the educators for their long and continuing service to young people and to the community as a whole.

He said that retired educators throughout Alabama are deserving of the highest praise and recognition for their devotion to their profession.

“All of you have meant a great deal to so many people,” he said. “We thank you and we owe you way more than we can say.”