Every year, the United States sets aside a special week in May to recognize the unsung heroes of our society — our teachers. US Teacher Appreciation Week is more than just a series of events or social media shoutouts; it’s a national celebration of dedication, resilience, and the incredible impact educators have on our lives.
n 2025, Teacher Appreciation Week runs from May 5 to May 9, with Teacher Appreciation Day falling on Tuesday, May 6. Schools, students, and communities across the country come together during this week to express gratitude to the educators who go above and beyond every single day.
Teachers do much more than deliver lessons. They ignite a love for learning, guide personal growth, and empower students to see their own potential. From kindergarten through high school and beyond, educators play a critical role in shaping not just academic success, but also emotional intelligence and lifelong values.
Think about the teachers who stayed after class to help you, who cheered you on during tough times, or who helped you discover a passion you didn’t know you had. That’s what this week is about — remembering those moments and saying thank you.
The idea of recognizing teachers started in 1953 when Eleanor Roosevelt persuaded Congress to establish a National Teacher Day. It wasn’t until the 1980s that the National Education Association (NEA) expanded it into a full week of celebration. Since then, US Teacher Appreciation Week has become a cherished tradition in schools nationwide.
During this special week, many schools plan themed days like:
Thank You Note Tuesday – Students share kind notes to show their gratitude.
Favorite Snack Day – Teachers receive their favorite treats.
Classroom Supply Drive – Parents donate useful items to support teachers.
Surprise Door Decorations – Students decorate classroom doors with posters and messages of appreciation.
Even small gestures like a cup of coffee or a classroom plant can make a big impact.
Whether you’re a parent, student, or community member, there are countless ways to get involved:
Write a Personal Note – A handwritten letter can be more powerful than any gift.
Gift Cards – Even a small one to a coffee shop or bookstore goes a long way.
Social Media Shoutout – Use platforms like Instagram or Twitter to share stories about teachers who made a difference.
Volunteer Your Time – Offer to help with classroom activities or school events.
Create a Tribute Video – Gather short clips from students expressing their thanks and compile them into a touching tribute.
For many teachers, it’s not about big gifts or public praise. It’s the little acknowledgments that matter most — when a student says, “You helped me believe in myself,” or a parent writes, “You made learning fun for my child.”
Here’s what one middle school teacher from Texas shared:
“I don’t teach for the gifts or recognition. I do it because I care. But when someone takes the time to say thank you, it reminds me why I started this journey in the first place.”
While US Teacher Appreciation Week is a wonderful time to celebrate, true support for educators should be year-round. Advocating for better pay, classroom resources, mental health support, and manageable workloads are ways we can make a lasting difference.
Our teachers deserve more than just a thank you — they deserve respect, support, and recognition every day.
Teachers shape tomorrow by inspiring one student at a time. During US Teacher Appreciation Week, let’s not just recognize their hard work — let’s uplift their spirits, celebrate their impact, and remind them that their efforts do not go unnoticed.
Behind every confident learner is a teacher who sparked their belief.