When Is US Teacher Appreciation Week 2025?

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Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!​

In the landscape of education, teachers are the cornerstone, nurturing young minds and shaping our future leaders. School Professionals, as a premier staffing company for educators, is thrilled to celebrate US Teacher Appreciation Week, a time dedicated to acknowledging the dedication and impact of teachers across the nation. So, why does Teacher Appreciation Week change every year? It is always celebrated during the first full week of May.

National Teacher Day is May 6, 2025 and National Teacher Appreciation Week is May 5-9, 2025.
YearDate
2025May 5-9, 2025
2026May 4-8, 2026
2027May 3-7, 2027
2028May 1-5, 2028
2029May 7-11, 2029

This special week celebrates the relentless efforts, commitment, and essential contributions of teachers at all educational levels. It’s a time to recognize the skills, patience, and passion of these vital educators, who take on roles that extend beyond teaching—they mentor, inspire, and guide.

If you’re marking your calendar for Teacher Appreciation Week 2025, remember it’s not just about saying thanks—it’s about understanding and valuing the profound influence teachers have on our lives.

Teacher Appreciation Week Ideas

Looking to make this week special for the teachers in your life or at your school? Here are a few thoughtful and meaningful ways to celebrate:

  • Daily shoutouts – Start each day with a school-wide announcement recognizing a few teachers by name. Highlight something unique they bring to the classroom.
  • Student-driven appreciation – Let students decorate classroom doors, write notes, or create posters sharing what they love about their teachers.
  • Staff lounge upgrades – Set up a “thank-you café” with snacks, coffee, and handwritten notes.
  • Small acts, big meaning – Even a heartfelt “thank you” can go a long way. Encourage everyone in the school community to share words of appreciation.

The best celebrations don’t require big budgets, just a big heart.

Teacher Appreciation Week Gift Ideas

Finding the right gift doesn’t mean spending a lot. It’s about showing teachers that their work is seen and valued. Some ideas:

  • Classroom supplies – Teachers often buy their own materials. Gifting items like markers, post-its, or dry erase sets shows real understanding of their needs.
  • Gift cards – From coffee shops to bookstores, gift cards are a reliable go-to that teachers actually use.
  • Customized gifts – Think personalized tote bags, notepads, or mugs with their name or a favorite quote.
  • Group gifts – Parents or administrators can organize a class-wide collection for a larger gift, like a spa day voucher or restaurant gift card.

If you’re unsure what a teacher would enjoy, ask! A small survey can make all the difference.

Teacher Appreciation Week Quotes

Sometimes the right words say it best. Here are a few quotes to include in cards, school announcements, or even social media posts:

“It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.”
Albert Einstein, physicist and educator

“Teachers affect eternity; no one can tell where their influence stops.”
Henry Brooks Adams, American historian and Harvard professor

“A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning.”
Brad Henry, former Governor of Oklahoma

When choosing a quote, think about what would resonate most with the teacher you’re honoring — or pick something from someone they admire. A personal connection makes it that much more meaningful.

Teacher Appreciation Week Themes

A week-long celebration can be even more fun with a daily theme. These ideas are easy to implement and boost morale across the board:

  • Monday: “Memory Lane” – Students bring in photos or stories of favorite classroom moments.
  • Tuesday: “Thank You Tuesday” – Everyone writes a note to a teacher.
  • Wednesday: “Wellness Wednesday” – Treat teachers to a yoga session, chair massage, or quiet lounge time.
  • Thursday: “Throwback Thursday” – Dress up from a past decade or childhood dream jobs.
  • Friday: “Fan Friday” – Students wear school colors or shirts with uplifting messages.

Keep it simple, flexible, and fun. The goal is to bring smiles, not stress.

Teacher Appreciation Week Discounts

Many brands show appreciation through exclusive deals for educators. While 2025 offers are still rolling out, here are some types of deals to watch for:

  • Retail discounts – Stores like Target, Staples, and Michaels often offer teacher-exclusive coupons or in-store events.
  • Food & beverage deals – Chains like Starbucks, Chipotle, and McAlister’s have historically given free drinks or meals with a school ID.
  • Online freebies – Look for free subscriptions, downloads, or webinars tailored to teachers.

Don’t forget to bring a valid school ID!

Teacher Appreciation Week Card Ideas

A handwritten card never goes out of style. Whether from a student, parent, or administrator, a few sincere sentences can have a lasting impact. Ideas to include:

  • A specific memory – “I’ll never forget how you helped me through the science fair chaos. You kept me calm and made it fun.”
  • A compliment on their style – “Your creative bulletin boards make the hallway feel like a gallery.”
  • A simple thank-you – “You make learning something to look forward to. Thank you for showing up every day with kindness.”

Pair the card with a small treat or let it stand on its own. The message matters most.

Teacher Appreciation Week Letter

For administrators or parents wanting to take a more formal approach, a letter of appreciation can mean a lot. Here’s a sample structure you can follow:

Dear [Teacher’s Name],

During Teacher Appreciation Week, I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible work you do every day. Your commitment, patience, and creativity have made a real difference in the lives of your students and the culture of our school.

Thank you for your resilience, your humor, and your passion for teaching. We see your effort, and we are so grateful.

Sincerely,
[Your Name / Title]

Tip: If sending a letter as a principal or director, print it on official letterhead and deliver it personally.

Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 Freebies

Freebies are always a fun perk. While not every company has released their 2025 promotions yet, here’s what teachers can typically expect:

  • Free food or drinks – Look for special days where fast-casual chains offer free coffee or meals.
  • Classroom materials – Some online stores or ed-tech platforms give away downloadable lesson plans, tools, or access to premium features.
  • Swag giveaways – Keep an eye on social media for contests and educator appreciation boxes.

In the meantime, bookmark your favorite brands and check their sites as the week approaches. A little perk goes a long way.

Empower Your Educational Team with School Professionals

For schools looking to enrich their teaching staff, School Professionals offers unmatched staffing solutions. From temporary teaching positions to long-term placements, we specialize in connecting skilled educators with schools that need them most.

Our meticulous approach to recruitment ensures that we match schools with candidates who not only meet educational standards but often exceed them. Our extensive network, continuously updated since our founding, meets the dynamic demands of the educational sector, ensuring we find the perfect fit for your needs.

Find Your Next Teaching Opportunity with School Professionals

For educators seeking new challenges and opportunities, School Professionals is more than just a pathway to your next job—it’s a gateway to a career enriched with growth and satisfaction. Our recruiters connect talented teachers with numerous schools, offering positions that cater to various needs and schedules.

What sets us apart is the caliber and diversity of our applicant pool, largely comprising referrals from satisfied teachers, clients, industry experts, and educational groups. This not only results in successful placements but also offers significant benefits and opportunities for professional development.

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week from Us to You

As we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week 2025, let’s extend our gratitude and take actionable steps to support and empower these key educators. Whether you’re a school seeking to enhance your teaching team or an educator ready to embark on your next professional journey, School Professionals is here to guide and support you.

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to all the dedicated, skillful, and committed educators out there. Your passion and dedication are the heartbeat of education. This week, we celebrate you.

Young woman holding an energy drink and some textbooks

For more information on how School Professionals can support your school or teaching career, visit our website. Discover the difference that dedicated, top-tier educational support can make. Find staff, find work, and celebrate the legacy and opportunity at School Professionals.

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