Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 is a heartfelt time to celebrate the amazing educators who shape our lives. Starting Monday, May 5, this week encourages students and parents to show appreciation through thank-you notes, kind gestures, and meaningful gifts. While teachers never expect anything in return, small surprises on Teacher Appreciation Day, or throughout the week, can go a long way in making them feel valued.
In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about Teacher Appreciation Week 2025—from dates and historical background to the best discounts and teacher gift ideas.
What is Teacher Appreciation Week?
Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 is a nationally recognized celebration of teachers and their commitment to education. It’s a time for communities to come together and show gratitude to the educators who work tirelessly to shape the next generation.
Although this weeklong celebration officially began in 1986, its roots go back to the 1950s when Eleanor Roosevelt first pushed Congress to recognize teachers with a national day of appreciation. What started as a single day has evolved into a full week dedicated to acknowledging educators’ impact.
When Is Teacher Appreciation Week 2025?
Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 takes place from Monday, May 5 through Friday, May 9, with Teacher Appreciation Day falling on Tuesday, May 6. The dates change slightly each year but always land on the first full week of May.
This dedicated week offers students, families, and school communities the chance to express thanks for the often unseen efforts teachers make every day.
Is Teacher Appreciation Week the Same Every Year?
Yes, the celebration always falls during the first full week of May. Although the calendar dates shift annually, the week’s purpose remains the same: recognizing and rewarding teachers for their invaluable service.
In 2025, Teacher Appreciation Day is observed on Tuesday, May 6, right in the middle of Teacher Appreciation Week 2025.
Teacher Freebies and Discounts for Teacher Appreciation Week 2025
This year, many businesses are honoring teachers with exclusive discounts and promotions. From classroom supplies to vacations, here are some of the best Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 deals:
Retail & Supplies:
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Office Depot & OfficeMax: Get 30% back in Bonus Rewards on qualifying in-store purchases.
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Staples: 20% off in-store purchases and a free pack of pens with teacher ID.
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Michael’s: Enjoy a 15% teacher discount on all purchases, including sale items.
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Crayola: 20% off items in the “Teacher Gift Ideas” section with code “EDUCATORS”.
Tech & Electronics:
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Lenovo: 5% off for teachers and students on laptops, accessories, and more.
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Samsung: Educator discounts on devices, appliances, and accessories via ID.me.
Apparel & Shoes:
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Cole Haan: 20% discount with a valid school email.
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J. Crew: 15% off in-store and online for teachers and students.
Food & Dining:
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Burger King: Free fries with any purchase.
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Buffalo Wild Wings: Six boneless wings for $1 with any burger purchase.
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Applebee’s: Free appetizer with entrée and valid school ID.
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Shake Shack: Free milkshake with teacher ID.
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Firehouse Subs: BOGO subs through the app with proof of employment.
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Insomnia Cookies: Free cookie with cookie purchase.
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Chick-fil-A: Discounts vary by location—check locally.
Travel:
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Cheap Caribbean: $150 discount on 5-night stays with their Hero Discount for teachers.
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Ford: Virtual test drive earns teachers a $50 e-gift card to use on DonorsChoose.org.
Organizations:
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National Education Association (NEA): Members enjoy ongoing travel and shopping discounts.
Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 Gift Ideas
When choosing a gift, it’s the thought that counts. Avoid the overdone coffee mugs and go for something memorable. Here are some top gift ideas for Teacher Appreciation Week 2025:
1. Plants or Flowers
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Low-maintenance plants like Peperomia, Monstera, or herb bundles (e.g., rosemary, basil).
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Favorite flowers: daisies, dahlias, carnations, chrysanthemums, orchids.
2. School Supplies
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Teachers often use personal funds for classroom needs. Useful items include:
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Pencils
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Dry-erase markers
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Colored pencils and crayons
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Tissue boxes
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Loose-leaf paper
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3. Handwritten Notes
A heartfelt letter or thank-you card can be the most meaningful gift. Include:
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A specific classroom memory
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How they impacted your or your child’s life
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A simple thank you
4. Gift Cards
Practical and appreciated. Favorites include:
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Amazon
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Target
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Starbucks
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Barnes & Noble
Final Thoughts on Teacher Appreciation Week 2025
Whether it’s a small token of appreciation or simply a few kind words, Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 is the perfect time to give back to the educators who give so much of themselves. From exclusive discounts and freebies to thoughtful gift ideas, take the time this May to let teachers know just how valued they are.