They’re the people who shaped all our lives and the teachers of Sunderland and East Durham get our attention once more.
As the end of the summer term arrives, pupils are saying thank you to teachers all over the region.
So are we with a look back at some who we’ve photographed in the classrooms between 2004 and 2022.
They come from Fulwell, Fatfield, Town End and Thornhill. We have others from Academy 360, Sandhill View, St Anthony’s, St Joseph’s and Seaham.
The end of the academic year means teachers will be receiving thank you gifts and cards across Sunderland, East Durham and the rest of the country.
Tell us about the ones that you want to praise.
We would also like to hear from anyone who has fond memories of a teacher from the past who shaped their lives.
Tell us more by emailing [email protected]
5. Trease Crumley at New Silksworth Academy
It was careers day at New Silksworth Academy in this scene from 2018. Teacher and aspiration lead, Trease Crumley was pictured as she joined in with pupils in a 'Now Press Play' interactive session. | se
6. Lynn Green at Fulwell Infant School
A 2017 photo which shows Fulwell Infant School teacher Lynn Green receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award.
7. Phil Keay at Hetton School
MP for Houghton & Sunderland South, Bridget Phillipson (right) officially opened the new Hetton School building in 2017 with Chair of Governors Margaret Young (left) and head teacher Phil Keay watching. | se
8. Allyson Turnbull at Academy 360
Sunderland's Academy 360 held a wig fundraiser for CLIC Sargent in 2016. In the picture, from left, were Rebecca Garnham, Ben Brian, Katie Sollars, Liam Douglas and Bailey Groves with teacher Allyson Turnbull.