Honoring the Heart of Education: National Teacher Appreciation Week 2025
From May 5 to May 9, Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 shines a spotlight on the dedication, sacrifice, and commitment of educators across the U.S.
A heartfelt thank-you week with free food, big discounts, and national recognition for educators who shape our future.
As the school year comes to a close and summer approaches, it’s time for parents, students, and communities to express their appreciation during National Teacher Appreciation Week 2025. Taking place from Monday, May 5, through Friday, May 9, this week also features National Teachers Day on Tuesday, May 6. It’s an opportunity to say thanks in words, deeds—and some delicious and considerate freebies.
The Meaning Behind National Teacher Appreciation Week
This unique week was created in 1984 by the National PTA to officially recognize teachers, though its origins go back to 1953, when Eleanor Roosevelt lobbied for a day to celebrate educators. Her conviction that “monetary compensation alone” could never adequately express a teacher’s worth still resonates.
Teachers today are still highly dedicated to their profession despite the increasing challenges. A Pew survey conducted in April 2024 reported that 77% of teachers said their job is often stressful, and 68% feel overwhelmed. However, more than 30% still report not feeling appreciated, according to a Horace Mann Educators Corporation poll. In response, the company is extending the celebration with a month of virtual events and giveaways, including two $2,500 Liberty Travel gift cards.
Survey Says: Teachers are Valued—but Also Undervalued
Although their job is crucial, most teachers feel they don’t get the appreciation they deserve. Yet the public continues to be supportive. According to a Gallup survey in 2023, 73% of parents graded their kids’ K-12 teachers as excellent or good, up slightly from 71% in 2018.
However, this appreciation does not always translate into support in the classroom or fair compensation. That’s why Teacher Appreciation Week is not just symbolic—this is a national moment to celebrate educators with tangible expression, complimentary meals, discounts, and acts of kindness.
National Brands Join In: Free Stuff and Discounts for Teachers
Food and Restaurant Specials
Chipotle is providing one of the largest giveaways with 100,000 free burritos for teachers and healthcare professionals. Winners confirm through ID.me to receive their freebie.
Sonic Drive-In has three unique offers for its Teachers’ Circle members:
- Free Sonic Snack or side with buy
- BOGO Sonic Blast
- $1.99 Quarter Pound Double Cheeseburger
Other popular food-based offers include:
- Smoothie King: 20% off in-store May 6–8
- McAlister’s Deli: Free big tea May 5–12, plus a chance to win a catered lunch for 30
- Whataburger: Free breakfast items from May 5–9
Retail and Tech Discounts for Teachers
Staples is spreading the love with 20% off in-store purchases and a free 12-pack of Tru Red pens (while supplies last).
Samsung is providing deep discounts as high as $620 off screens and $300 off interactive boards to aid teachers in the classroom and remote classrooms.
More retailer promotions:
- Stitch Fix: 25% discount on initial order for new teacher customers
- Petlibro: 20% discount on pet care technology using code TEACHERSPET on May 6
- Box Tops for Education: $5 school bonus with app download and initial receipt scan
Travel and Experiences to Rest and Refresh Teachers
Hilton and Embassy Suites have special summer rates at specific Florida properties available with booking codes for teachers.
Teachers can also receive:
- Museum of Illusions: Free admission with possibility of winning a gift pack
- The Parking Spot: 25% off reservations booked in May for travel through 2025
- Taziki’s: Spend $50 on gift cards and get a $10 dine-in voucher
How to Show Gratitude Beyond the Deals?
Although discounts and freebies are appreciated, honoring teachers personally is equally significant. Websites such as We Are Teachers, National PTA, and NEA provide suggestions to honor teachers through crafts, classroom activities, and community appreciation projects.
Whether it’s a heartfelt letter, a free burrito, or a travel coupon, each recognition action in Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 helps educators know that their work counts. In uncertain times, teachers are a consistent, motivational presence, and this week is our time to say: thanks.
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