In the history of Chinese education, Confucius is a paragon of all teachers, holding the philosophy of "educating all without discrimination, and teaching students according to their talent." Confucius, whose teachings covered the six arts of rites, music, archery, chariot driving, literacy and mathematics, had more than three thousand disciples during his lifetime. In practice of his credo, the Sage never refused to teach anyone with a sincere desire to learn, regardless of his class or character.

To end the turmoil of the Spring and Autumn Period, Confucius exhaustively toured the various warring Chinese states to advise rulers and officials on the merits of ethical rule, in the belief that this disorder was a reflection of declining social morals. In his later years, Confucius collected and reorganized ancient Chinese documents and texts, thus laying a solid foundation for enduring Chinese civilization. In 1939, the Ministry of Education pronounced that Confucius' birthday would be celebrated on August 27 and designated it as Teachers' Day as well as a national holiday to remember Confucius' enormous contribution to Chinese culture and society. The date was changed to September 28 in 1952 in accordance with chronologists' new findings. Today, Teachers' Day not only commemorates the foremost teacher in Chinese history but also honors all teachers for their hard work during the year.

Every year on Teachers' Day, the Confucius Memorial Ceremony is held at Confucius Temples across Taiwan to show respect and honor to the Sage. At the "Teachers' Day Celebration" held by the Ministry of Education and the various local governments, teachers with the highest seniority and best qualities are recognized for their contribution to society.

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