As May rolls in and the academic year begins to wind down, there’s one day that calls on students, parents, and communities to pause, reflect, and say a heartfelt “thank you”—Teacher Appreciation Day.
In 2025, this special day lands on Tuesday, May 6, right in the heart of Teacher Appreciation Week, which spans from May 5 to May 9. Whether you’re a student scribbling a thank you note or a school planning a surprise celebration, here’s everything you need to know.
What is US Teacher Appreciation Day?
Teacher Appreciation Day is a nationwide observance dedicated to honouring the people who dedicate their lives to educating and inspiring young minds. It first came to life in 1953 thanks to the efforts of Eleanor Roosevelt, who pushed for a national day recognising the work of teachers.
By 1985, the day had evolved into a full week of celebrations, spearheaded by the National Education Association to ensure America’s educators get the recognition they deserve.
Put simply, it’s a time to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of our schools—the ones who stay after hours, buy their own classroom supplies, and never stop believing in their students.
What Date Does It Take Place in 2025?
Mark your calendars: in 2025, Teacher Appreciation Day falls on Tuesday, May 6. As always, it’s celebrated during the first full week of May, which is now widely recognised as Teacher Appreciation Week. It’s the perfect opportunity to show a bit of gratitude before summer break begins.
What Happens on Teacher Appreciation Day In The US?
Across the country, classrooms and communities come alive with acts of gratitude. Students write notes and letters, classrooms get decorated with handmade posters, and parents often chip in with breakfast treats or small gifts. Some schools hold assemblies or give out awards. Others treat their staff to luncheons, massages, or little surprises tucked into mailboxes.
Social media also plays a big role these days. Messages of appreciation flood Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook—some heartwarming, others humorous, but all united in recognising the effort teachers pour into their work.
And it’s not just individuals making a fuss. Businesses across the US offer discounts and freebies to teachers, from coffee shops handing out free lattes to retail chains offering generous markdowns on everything from books to electronics. It’s a small way of saying, “We see you—and we appreciate you.”
How Schools and Colleges Are Celebrating Across the Country
Each year, different communities across the US put their own spin on the celebrations, and 2025 is no different.
In Texas, two standout educators from the San Antonio area received top honours in the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards. The prize? A significant financial reward, not just for them but for their schools too—an inspiring reminder that exceptional teaching deserves meaningful recognition.
Meanwhile, in Connecticut, businesses jumped on board. Chipotle, Target, and Applebee’s led the way with generous deals for teachers. Local schools complemented these efforts with classroom parties, wall displays of student thank-yous, and even pop-up photo booths for teachers and students to capture the moment.
Over in Houston, educators were treated to free breakfasts at Whataburger and cookies from Potbelly. Some schools hosted gratitude walls—giant murals filled with sticky notes from students describing what they love most about their teachers.
It’s these local touches that truly bring Teacher Appreciation Day to life—making it more than just a date on the calendar.
Gift Ideas to Show Your Teacher Some Love
Not sure how to show your appreciation? You don’t need to break the bank to make a teacher feel valued. Here are a few thoughtful ideas:
? A handwritten note – Sometimes the most powerful gift is simply a few words of thanks. Teachers often keep these letters for years.
?? Supplies they’ll actually use – Markers, sticky notes, tissues, hand sanitiser… the everyday things teachers often buy themselves.
? Gift cards – Whether it’s for coffee, books, or a relaxing meal, a small gift card is always appreciated.
? Homemade goodies – Baked treats or snacks made with love show effort and care.
? Something personal – A custom mug, tote bag, or even a plant for their desk adds a little cheer to their daily routinIt’s not about the cost—it’s about the thought. A genuine show of gratitude goes a long way.
When is the Next Teacher Appreciation Day in the US?
Looking ahead, the next Teacher Appreciation Day in the US will fall on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. As always, it will be part of the week-long celebration beginning the first Monday of May.
Teachers do far more than deliver lessons. They guide, mentor, encourage, and challenge students to think, grow, and believe in themselves. Taking a moment—whether it’s a day, a week, or just a few minutes, to recognise their efforts is one of the most meaningful things we can do.
So this May, take the time. Say thank you. Write that card. Offer that smile. Because teachers, more than anyone, deserve to feel the impact of their work.
