Celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week with Deals and Events

Restaurants and retailers are rolling out special offers and freebies for National Teacher Day on May 6, and throughout National Teacher Appreciation Week from May 6 to May 10.

As the school year winds down and summer approaches, it’s the perfect time to celebrate educators during National Teacher Appreciation Week, taking place from Monday, May 5, to Friday, May 9. National Teachers Day is highlighted on May 6.

Gallup polling indicates that parents of K-12 students continue to hold teachers in high regard, with 73% rating their children’s teachers as excellent or good in 2023, which is an increase from 71% in 2018.

However, many teachers describe their occupation as “frequently stressful” (77%) or “overwhelming” (68%), according to a Pew Survey conducted in April 2024.

A Horace Mann Educators Corporation survey, done from March 26 to April 1, revealed over 30% of teachers feel underappreciated, though most still pledge their dedication to their students and vocation. The financial company is extending National Teacher Appreciation Week into a month loaded with virtual events for teachers, offering weekly prizes and giving two lucky winners a $2,500 Liberty Travel gift card.

What exactly is National Teachers Appreciation Week? Originating from a 1984 initiative by the National Parent Teacher Association, it dedicates a week in May to honor educators, which the National Education Association supports with National Teachers Day.

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The movement began in 1953 when former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt advocated in Congress for a day dedicated to teachers. As noted on the We Are Teachers website, Roosevelt once stated, “It is quite impossible to give teachers monetary compensation alone that will repay for their devotion to the job and the love that must go to each and every child,” suggesting more community awareness could better recognize teachers’ roles.

Searching for ways to show appreciation for favorite teachers? Check out the websites of the National PTA, NEA, and We Are Teachers for creative ideas and projects.

Many businesses are part of the celebration too, offering deals and gift card specials for teachers looking to enjoy time away from work. Here’s a selection:

Chipotle Teacher Appreciation Week Giveaway

Through May 13, both teachers and healthcare workers (as it’s also National Nurse Appreciation Week) can enter online for a chance to be among 100,000 recipients for a free burrito. Winners will receive an email to confirm their employment via ID.me; those who verify in 48 hours will get a free burrito e-card.

Chipotle claims to have provided $16 million in free food to educators and healthcare professionals since 2016. They’re also using their Round-Up for Real Change feature in the Chipotle app and on their website to support the Kids In Need Foundation and American Nurses Foundation.

Hilton and Embassy Suites by Hilton

This summer, teachers can take advantage of special deals at six Florida locations, including Miami, Miami Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa.

Smoothie King

When visiting in-store and showing valid working ID, teachers can receive 20% off their orders from May 6-8.

Sonic Drive-In

During Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5-9), Sonic offers exclusive deals to their Teachers’ Circle rewards program members: a free Sonic Snack or side with purchase, a buy-one-get-one-free Sonic Blast, and a $1.99 Quarter Pound Double Cheeseburger.

Staples

Teachers can enjoy 20% off in-store purchases with a valid teacher ID during Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4-10). Plus, they can receive a free 12-pack of Tru Red Stick Pens (limit one per customer, while supplies last, with coupons available in the Staples app).

Additional deals for National Teachers Day and Teachers Appreciation Week are available at establishments including Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant, Atomic Wings, Bad Daddy’s, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, Box Tops for Education, Doodleface, Eddie Merlot’s, Einstein Bros. Bagels, The Greene Turtle, Grimaldi’s, Happy Joe’s, Hat Creek Burger Company, la Madeleine, Logan’s Roadhouse, McAlister’s Deli, MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes, Mountain Mike’s Pizza, Museum of Illusions, Old Chicago, Original ChopShop, The Parking Spot, Peter Piper Pizza, Petlibro, Picazzo’s, Samsung, Shipley Do-Nuts, Stitch Fix, Sullivan’s Steakhouse, Taziki’s, Tim Hortons, Tijuana Flats, Vitality Bowls, and Whataburger.