Every year in May, communities across the country take a moment to honor the hard work and dedication of teachers. Teacher Appreciation Week is an annual observance held during the first full week of May (starting Monday, May 5th in 2025) to celebrate educators and say “thank you” for all they do. In 2025, Teacher Appreciation Week runs from May 5–9, with the centerpiece Teacher Appreciation Day falling on Tuesday, May 6th. During this week-long celebration, students, parents, and schools plan creative activities, heartfelt gifts, and themed events to show gratitude to teachers. This post will explore the meaning and history of the week, suggest creative 2025 themes, and offer a wealth of ideas on how teachers can be honored both at school and at home.
History and Meaning of Teacher Appreciation Week
The roots of Teacher Appreciation Week go back decades. In the early 1940s, an Arkansas schoolteacher named Mattie White Woodridge began writing letters to legislators and to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, urging that teachers be officially recognized for their contributions. By 1953, Eleanor Roosevelt successfully convinced Congress to declare the first National Teachers Day, celebrated on the first Tuesday of March. Over time, educators and parent organizations pushed to expand that single day into a full week. In 1985, the National Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) established Teacher Appreciation Week during the first full week of May. The National Education Association (NEA) quickly followed suit, designating the Tuesday of that week as National Teacher Appreciation Day. Ever since, the first full week of May has been set aside to honor teachers’ hard work and lasting impact on students’ lives.
“It is a day for honoring teachers and recognizing the lasting contributions they make to our lives.”
– NEA
Today, Teacher Appreciation Week is a chance for schools and families to give back to those who spend their days helping students learn and grow. During this special week, schools nationwide encourage students and parents to reach out with thank-you notes, small gifts, and acts of kindness. It’s a reminder to acknowledge the passion and effort teachers pour into their classrooms every day.
Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 Dates and Theme
In 2025, the official dates for Teacher Appreciation Week are Monday, May 5 through Friday, May 9. This “first full week of May” timing aligns with the tradition established by the National PTA and NEA. Within that week, Teacher Appreciation Day – the day focused specifically on thanking teachers – falls on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. On that day and throughout the week, schools often schedule special events to highlight teachers’ achievements.
Each year the National PTA chooses a theme or slogan to promote the week. For example, the 2025 PTA tagline is “Teachers Light the Way to Brighter Futures,” emphasizing how educators guide and inspire their students. Schools and PTAs often build on this by selecting fun themes or dress-up days to make the week feel festive and personalized. Having a theme can turn Teacher Appreciation Week into a school-wide celebration and show teachers how much they’re valued.
Creative Teacher Appreciation Week Themes for 2025
Choosing a creative theme can make each day of the week exciting. Some schools pick themes tied to May (like Cinco de Mayo fiestas) or to springtime. Here are a few popular ideas:
- Hollywood “Movie Star” Red Carpet: Treat teachers like celebrities by rolling out a red carpet and giving them “superlative” awards.
- Cinco de Mayo Fiesta: Since the week includes May 5, a Mexican fiesta theme with tacos, decorations, and Latin music is perfect.
- Tropical Luau or Beach Party: Hawaiian leis, palm decorations, and a beach-party vibe can make teachers feel relaxed.
- Western or Rustic: A cowboy/girl western theme with bandanas and country music is a lighthearted way to say thank you.
- Coffee and Donuts: Kick off the week with a morning coffee-and-donuts breakfast and “sweet thank you” posters.
- Sports or “All-Stars” Theme: Turn teachers into MVPs with jersey days or mini pep rallies.
- Spa/Relaxation Day: Give teachers a “day at the spa” with relaxation baskets and calming messages.
- Dr. Seuss / Book Theme: A whimsical, literary theme with dress-up and reading activities.
The key is to pick a theme that celebrates the staff and involves the whole school. By using creative themes each day, schools can turn the week into a vibrant and memorable celebration.
Teacher Appreciation Week Activities for Students and Schools
Here are some ideas commonly used in elementary and middle schools:
- Classroom Decorations: Students can decorate their teacher’s door with banners and thank-you notes.
- Thank-You Letters and Notes: A handwritten letter from a student can be the most meaningful gift of all.
- Thank You Book or Scrapbook: Each student contributes a page to create a class keepsake.
- Morning Coffee/Donut Gathering: Organize a morning coffee and treat table in the teachers’ lounge.
- Class Performance or Song: Plan a thank-you performance or poem recitation.
- Class Party or Snack: Host a snack break or light celebration.
- Supply Drop-Off: Restock needed classroom supplies or buy from a shared Amazon wishlist.
Celebrating at Home: Ideas for Parents
Parents play a crucial role in Teacher Appreciation Week. Here are a few ways families can show appreciation from home:
- Handwritten Cards from Home
- Share a Video Message
- Home-Baked Goods or Treats
- Plant or Flowers
- Gift Cards and Supplies
- Social Media Shout-Out
- Donate to Educational Charities
These gestures let teachers know their hard work is valued not just by students, but by the whole family.
Teacher Appreciation Week Deals and Discounts
Many businesses celebrate the week with exclusive offers for teachers. Office supply stores like Staples and Office Depot/OfficeMax often offer reward points or discounts. Restaurants like Buffalo Wild Wings may provide teacher discounts or free meals. Teachers should check sites like Refer-App for exclusive deals.
Low-Cost and DIY Gift Ideas
The most meaningful gifts don’t need to be expensive. Here are some thoughtful, budget-friendly ideas:
- Handmade Cards and Crafts
- Gift Cards (Coffee shops, bookstores, retailers)
- Classroom Supplies
- Books or Educational Materials
- Plants or Flowers
- Treats and Snacks
- “Thank You” Jar or Bucket
- Personalized Teacher Gifts
- Photo Displays
Even the simplest gestures matter when they’re heartfelt.
Honoring Teachers from Home
Even if you can’t visit the school, you can still honor teachers:
- Send E-Cards or Emails
- Video Call or Chat
- Social Media and Hashtags (#ThankATeacher)
- Community Acts of Kindness
- Educational Donations
A thank-you message — written, recorded, or posted — can mean the world to an educator.
Conclusion
Teacher Appreciation Week is a special time to recognize the passion and commitment of educators. Whether through a card, celebration, or small token of thanks, every gesture counts. Let’s use this week to thank the teachers who light the way to a brighter future.