Teachers shape our kids’ futures every day. In 2025, we had a great chance to say thanks during Teacher Appreciation Week. This guide covers the basics, plus extra tips to make your thanks count. We’ll look at dates, ideas, gifts, and more. You’ll find ways to beat what others offer online.
What Is US Teacher Appreciation Day and Week?
Teacher Appreciation Day is a special day to thank teachers for their hard work. It’s part of Teacher Appreciation Week, which lasts five days. Schools, parents, and kids join in to show thanks.
The week honors all teachers. It includes public school staff, private tutors, and subs. You can thank them with notes, gifts, or events. It’s simple but means a lot.
History of Teacher Appreciation Day
This day started back in 1953. Eleanor Roosevelt talked to Congress about it. She said we need a day to honor teachers. They agreed.
Before that, in 1944, a teacher named Mattye Whyte Woodridge wrote to leaders. She asked for a national day. Arkansas led the way first. Over time, it moved to May. The National Education Association helped make it official. Now, it’s always the first full week of May.
In 1980, it became National Teacher Day on March 7. Then it shifted to May in 1984. The PTA helped grow it into a week.
When Was Teacher Appreciation Day 2025?
In 2025, Teacher Appreciation Week ran from May 5 to May 9. The main day was Tuesday, May 6.
Here’s a table with dates for recent and future years:
| Year | Week Dates | Day Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | May 6-10 | May 7 |
| 2025 | May 5-9 | May 6 |
| 2026 | May 4-8 | May 5 |
| 2027 | May 3-7 | May 4 |
| 2028 | May 1-5 | May 2 |
| 2029 | May 7-11 | May 8 |
Why We Need to Appreciate Teachers More Than Ever
Teachers face tough times. In 2025, burnout hit many hard. About 44% of K-12 teachers felt burned out often. That’s higher than other jobs at 30%.
Retention is a big issue too. In 2025, 16% of teachers planned to quit, down from 22% in 2024. But shortages persist. States had over 365,000 underqualified teachers.
Appreciation helps. It boosts morale and keeps good teachers around. Simple thanks can cut stress. Schools with strong support see less turnover. You can make a difference.
Fun Ways to Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week
Make the week special. Start with daily shoutouts on social media or school boards.
Get students involved. Have them decorate doors with thanks notes. Or set up a thank-you cafe in the staff lounge with snacks and coffee.
Small acts count. Say thanks in person. Or help with classroom tasks. These build a positive vibe.
Top Gift Ideas for Teachers
Gifts show you care. Pick useful ones.
- Classroom supplies like markers, sticky notes, or dry erase boards.
- Gift cards to coffee shops, bookstores, or online stores.
- Personalized items such as mugs or tote bags with fun sayings.
- Group gifts like a spa day voucher.
Avoid apples or generic stuff. Ask what they need.
Inspiring Quotes for Teachers
Quotes lift spirits. Here are some favorites:
- “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” – Albert Einstein
- “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” – Henry Brooks Adams
- “Teaching is the greatest act of optimism.” – Colleen Wilcox
- “The dream begins with a teacher who believes in you.” – Dan Rather
Use them in cards or posters.
Daily Themes for the Week
Themes make it fun. Try these for 2025:
- Monday: Memory Lane – Share old photos and stories.
- Tuesday: Thank You Day – Write notes of thanks.
- Wednesday: Wellness Day – Offer yoga or quick massages.
- Thursday: Throwback Day – Dress in old school styles.
- Friday: Fan Day – Wear school colors and cheer.
These keep energy high all week.
Best Discounts and Freebies from 2025
In 2025, brands stepped up. Teachers got great deals with ID.
- Staples: 20% off in-store buys.
- The Paper Store: 15% off in-store from May 12-18.
- Office Depot: 30% back in rewards.
- Taziki’s: 20% off orders May 5-11.
- Chipotle and Chick-fil-A: Free items or discounts at select spots.
Many places offered free coffee or meals. Check IDs worked for most.
Creative Card and Letter Ideas
Handwritten notes touch hearts. In cards, share a specific memory. Like, “Thanks for helping with that tough math problem.”
For letters, use a template:
Dear [Teacher’s Name],
Thanks for your hard work this year. You made learning fun. We value your patience and ideas.
Best,
[Your Name]
Deliver in person for extra impact.
How Parents and Communities Can Get Involved
Parents, you play a key role. Volunteer for events. Or donate supplies.
Communities can host thank-you lunches. Local businesses might sponsor gifts. Get the whole town in on it. This builds strong schools.
Read: Teachers Pay Teachers: Easy Guide for Finding and Sharing Lesson Ideas 2026
Real Teacher Stories from 2025
Stories inspire. One teacher, Sahar Alameh, won a Great Teacher award. She trains future educators and loves her job.
Tim Forse switched careers to teach history. He started as a parent and found his passion.
These show teachers’ dedication. Share your own to spread the word.
Tips for Schools to Organize Events
Schools, plan ahead. Form a committee with parents and staff.
- Set a budget for snacks and decor.
- Schedule events like a teacher parade.
- Use online tools for sign-ups.
- Include virtual options for remote staff.
Keep it easy and fun. Focus on real thanks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is US Teacher Appreciation Day each year?
It’s always the Tuesday of the first full week in May.
What’s the difference between Teacher Day and Week?
The day is one Tuesday. The week is Monday to Friday.
Do substitute teachers get appreciated too?
Yes! Include them in your thanks.
How can I appreciate teachers if I’m not at school?
Send an email or card. Or donate to teacher funds.
Are there national events for Teacher Appreciation?
The NEA hosts online events. Check their site.
Why is appreciation important for teachers?
It fights burnout and helps them stay in the job.
What if my school doesn’t celebrate?
Start small. Suggest ideas to the principal.
Can businesses join in?
Yes. Offer deals or sponsor events.
Wrapping Up
Teacher Appreciation Day 2025 reminded us how vital educators are. From heartfelt gifts to fun events, we celebrated their impact. Keep the thanks going year-round—your support helps teachers thrive and shapes brighter futures for all. Ready to plan for next year? Start now!
