As the school year hums along, there’s one day that stands out as a heartfelt tribute to the unsung heroes of education: National Teacher Appreciation Day. In 2025, this special day falls on Tuesday, May 6, during National Teacher Appreciation Week from May 5–9. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and shower gratitude on the teachers who dedicate their lives to shaping young minds. Here’s everything you need to know about this meaningful celebration and how you can make it unforgettable for the educators in your life.

The Heart of Teacher Appreciation Day

National Teacher Appreciation Day is more than a date—it’s a movement to recognize the tireless work of educators who inspire, guide, and empower students. Sponsored by the National Education Association (NEA), this day is part of a week-long celebration during the first full week of May, honoring teachers’ lasting contributions. As Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Teachers wield that weapon, and this day is our chance to say thank you.

The day’s origins trace back to the 1940s when Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge advocated for a national day to honor educators. Her efforts caught Eleanor Roosevelt’s attention, leading Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day in 1953. By 1984, the National Parent Teacher Association expanded it into a week, and since 1985, the NEA has championed the first full week of May as Teacher Appreciation Week, with Tuesday as National Teacher Appreciation Day.

Why Teachers Deserve the Spotlight

Teachers do more than teach—they mentor, advocate, and inspire. Research from the 1980s found teachers make about 1,500 decisions daily, a number likely higher now given modern classroom complexities. With over 3.2 million teachers in the U.S. and an estimated 93.7 million worldwide, their impact is monumental. Yet, nine out of ten U.S. teachers report high stress, often feeling underpaid and underappreciated. National Teacher Appreciation Day is a chance to change that narrative by showing educators they’re valued.

This year, the NEA calls for appreciation to become action. Amid challenges like book bans and school funding cuts, the organization urges communities to advocate for better pay, safer schools, and stronger support for educators. As the NEA states, “Teachers do all they can for their students, and we’re doing all we can for teachers.”

How to Celebrate in 2025

Making teachers feel appreciated doesn’t require grand gestures—small, thoughtful acts go far. Here are creative ideas to celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Day and Week in 2025:

• Write a Heartfelt Note: Encourage students and parents to pen thank-you letters or create a “gratitude wall” with sticky notes of appreciation. A simple “You’ve made a difference” can mean the world.
• Organize a Surprise Event: Plan a classroom party with snacks and music, or roll out a “red carpet” to make teachers feel like VIPs.
• Gift Thoughtfully: Skip mugs and candles. Opt for practical gifts like classroom supplies (dry erase markers, tissues) or gift cards to restaurants or bookstores. Pool funds with other parents for bigger impact.
• Advocate for Change: Write to Congress or local representatives to support policies funding public schools and improving teacher pay. Share advocacy on social media with #ThankATeacher and tag @NEAToday.

Treat Them to a Meal: Organize a breakfast or lunch in the staff lounge, or treat teachers to a meal at a local restaurant. Many businesses offer freebies during Teacher Appreciation Week—see below!

Deals and Discounts for Teachers in 2025

National Teacher Appreciation Week brings perks for educators, with U.S. businesses offering free meals, discounts, and more. Here’s a snapshot of 2025 deals (verify with local locations, as participation varies):

• Whataburger: Free breakfast entrée from 5 a.m.–9 a.m., May 5–9, with a valid school ID.
• Buffalo Wild Wings: 20% off orders for teachers and school staff with a valid ID.
• Office Depot/OfficeMax: 30% back in Bonus Rewards on qualifying in-store purchases, ideal for classroom essentials.
• Crayola: 20% off products in the “Teacher Gift Ideas” category with code “EDUCATORS” at checkout.
• Ford: Teachers taking a virtual test drive by May 7 receive a $50 e-gift card for classroom requests on DonorsChoose.

Year-round deals, like J. Crew (15% off) and Michael’s (15% off all purchases), are available for teachers who verify their status. Watch social media for pop-up promotions, as brands often announce last-minute giveaways.

Join the Movement

National Teacher Appreciation Day 2025 is a chance to do more than say thanks—it’s an opportunity to uplift educators shaping our communities and future. Whether you’re a student, parent, or community member, your actions matter. Share appreciation on social media with #ThankATeacher, plan a thoughtful gesture, or advocate for policies supporting teachers year-round.

As the school year winds down, let’s make May 6, 2025, unforgettable for teachers. As Henry Adams said, “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” Let’s show them their influence is seen, valued, and celebrated.
ViralNow.us encourages readers to share their Teacher Appreciation stories in the comments. How are you honoring teachers this year?

References:

• National Education Association, Teacher Appreciation Week: https://www.nea.org/TAW
• Historical background on Teacher Appreciation Day: https://www.nea.org/TAW
• Teacher decision-making research: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/how-many-decisions-do-teachers-make-every-day/2019/01
• Teacher stress statistics: https://www.nea.org/advocating-for-change/new-from-nea/teacher-stress-and-burnout
• 2025 Teacher Appreciation Week deals: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/money/g60222576/teacher-appreciation-week-freebies-deals/