National Teacher Appreciation Week Begins Amid Stress

As the school year winds down and summer nears, the nation turns its attention to honoring educators during National Teacher Appreciation Week, celebrated from Monday, May 5, through Friday, May 9. The week also includes National Teachers Day on May 6, a moment to recognize the vital role teachers play in students’ lives.

A 2023 Gallup poll revealed that 73% of parents with K-12 children rated their kids' teachers as excellent or good—a slight increase from 71% in 2018. Despite this high regard, a Pew Research Center survey from April 2024 painted a different picture from the inside: 77% of teachers described their jobs as “frequently stressful,” with 68% labeling their work as “overwhelming.”

Another recent poll by Horace Mann Educators Corporation, conducted between March 26 and April 1, found that more than 30% of teachers feel underappreciated. Nonetheless, a majority affirmed their unwavering commitment to their students and profession. In response, Horace Mann is expanding its celebration into a full month of virtual events, prize drawings, and giveaways—including two grand prizes of $2,500 Liberty Travel gift cards.

A Tradition Rooted in Advocacy

The tradition of Teacher Appreciation Week dates back to 1984, when the National Parent Teacher Association formally established it. The National Education Association had already supported a Teachers Day years earlier, thanks in part to efforts by former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. In 1953, Roosevelt pushed Congress to recognize the critical role educators play, famously writing that monetary rewards could never fully compensate for the dedication and love teachers bring to their work.

Ways to Celebrate and Give Back

For those looking to honor their favorite teachers, the National PTA, NEA, and education-focused site We Are Teachers offer plenty of ideas—from classroom projects to thank-you gifts.

Retailers and restaurants are also stepping in with a wide range of promotions and freebies:

• Chipotle is giving away 100,000 free burritos to teachers and healthcare workers who verify employment via ID.me by May 13.

• Hilton and Embassy Suites offer discounted stays at six Florida hotels using designated codes.

• Smoothie King is offering 20% off in-store orders from May 6–8.

• Sonic Drive-In has exclusive offers for members of its Teachers’ Circle, including BOGO deals and $1.99 cheeseburgers.

More Deals from Brands and Restaurants

From free desserts at Sullivan’s Steakhouse and Eddie Merlot’s, to discounted gear and gift cards from Staples, Samsung, and Stitch Fix, educators can enjoy a range of perks with valid ID. Some highlights include:

• Whataburger is offering free breakfast items to teachers May 5–9, plus $1,000 awards to select educators’ schools.

• Museum of Illusions is offering free admission and goodie bag raffles for teachers at all U.S. locations.

• McAlister’s Deli is giving away free Big Teas and a chance to win a catered lunch for up to 30 people.

With hundreds of businesses participating, this week offers both a chance for the public to show gratitude and for educators to receive much-needed appreciation—and perhaps a few well-earned treats.