US Teacher Appreciation Week 2025: Freebies for Educators
May 5, 2025 — It’s that time of year again when we pause to recognize the everyday heroes in our classrooms. Teacher Appreciation Week 2025, running from May 5 to May 9, is a national celebration dedicated to honoring the educators who dedicate their lives to shaping young minds. From national chains to local businesses, teachers across the U.S. are being treated to heartfelt thanks, thoughtful gifts, and a long list of deals, discounts, and freebies.
When is US Teacher Appreciation Week 2025?
Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 runs from Monday, May 5 to Friday, May 9, with National Teacher Appreciation Day falling on Tuesday, May 6 in the USA. This celebration always lands in the first full week of May and is organized nationally by groups like the National Education Association (NEA) and Teachers of Tomorrow.
Why Do We Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week in USA?
Teachers are among the most influential figures in a child’s life, second only to parents. They guide, mentor, and nurture the next generation — often going above and beyond their job descriptions. Teacher Appreciation Week is a chance for students, parents, schools, and communities to express gratitude for their unwavering commitment to education and child development.
The History Behind Teacher Appreciation Week
The roots of this celebration go back to the 1950s, when Arkansas educator Mattie Whyte Woodridge began campaigning for a national day to honor teachers. In 1953, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt supported the idea and convinced Congress to establish a National Teacher Day. The celebration was later expanded to a full week in 1986 with support from the NEA.
How to Celebrate Teachers in 2025
There are countless meaningful ways to show appreciation for teachers — whether you’re a student, parent, or school administrator. Here are some popular and thoughtful ideas:
- Handwritten letters or thank-you notes from students.
- Classroom decorations or surprise parties organized by parents.
- Personalized gifts such as mugs, gift cards, or classroom supplies.
- Social media shoutouts using the hashtag #ThankATeacher and tagging @NEAToday.
- Volunteer your time at school events or donate school supplies via the National PTA Toolkit.
- Submit a story of an extraordinary teacher to the NEA’s educator spotlight.
Top Deals, Discounts, and Freebies for Teacher Appreciation Week 2025
Businesses nationwide are joining in the celebration with exclusive offers for educators. Here’s a comprehensive list of the best deals available this week:
National Teacher Discounts
- Apple – Special education pricing on Macs, iPads, Apple Music, and accessories for verified teachers.
- Microsoft Education – Deep discounts on software and Windows devices.
- Books-A-Million – Sign up for the BAM Educator Card for exclusive bulk pricing and free quotes.
- Costco – Receive a $40 Costco Shop Card when you join as a new member with teacher ID.
- Office Depot/OfficeMax – Get 30% back in Bonus Rewards on qualifying in-store purchases.
- Staples – 20% off in-store purchases with teacher ID and access to their Classroom Rewards Program.
- Michaels – 15% off all purchases, including sale items, for educators.
- Loom – Free Loom Education Plan for instructional video creation with a .edu email.
Restaurant & Food Offers
- Whataburger – Free breakfast entrée daily from 5–9 a.m., May 5–9.
- Logan’s Roadhouse – 20% off entrées with ID from May 5–12.
- Smoothie King – 20% off in-store purchases starting May 6.
- Chipotle – Giving away $2 million in free burritos; sign up at teacherthanks.chipotle.com for a chance to win a free entrée.
- Original ChopShop – 10% off dine-in and takeout orders with teacher ID, May 5–9.
- State Fare Kitchen & Bar – Free entrée from a special Teacher Menu on May 6.
- Pho Prime – Buy one, get one 50% off pho or sandwiches during May 5–9.
- Crawfish Cafe – 15% off all meals with teacher ID, May 5–9.
- Willie’s Grill & Icehouse – Free chips and queso all May with school ID; year-round 10% off and chance to enter the Ultimate Adopt a School Contest.
Local Houston Offers (Examples)
- Kazzan Ramen & Bar – 20% discount on May 6 with ID (191 Heights Blvd).
- Verde Garden – 10% off entire tab on May 6 (2817 W Dallas, Houston).
- Wooster’s Garden – 10% off on May 6 (3315 Milam St, Houston).
Travel & Lifestyle Perks
- The Parking Spot – 25% off all reservations made in May for travel through 2025.
- USA TODAY – Up to 45% off classroom newspaper subscriptions.
- Avid Software – Educational pricing on Media Composer, Pro Tools, and Sibelius.
Final Thoughts: Say Thank You Loud and Proud
Whether it’s through a simple thank-you note, a special surprise, or taking advantage of the incredible Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 deals, there’s no shortage of ways to express gratitude to the educators who shape our world. This week is a chance for communities across the country to say what can’t be said enough: Thank you, teachers.
