National Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 is from May 5 to May 9. This week celebrates educators with discounts, giveaways, and gestures of thanks. The big event is National Teacher Day on Tuesday, May 6. On this day, businesses have special promotions for teachers.
Restaurants are at the forefront of honoring educators. Chipotle is giving away 100,000 e-gift cards for burritos. This offer is for teachers and healthcare workers. Winners must verify their employment within 48 hours. Whataburger offers a free breakfast item from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. from May 5 to May 9 for educators with a valid school ID. They are also giving $1,000 grants to 75 teachers.
Buffalo Wild Wings is offering teachers 20% off their bills through May 6, plus a deal on boneless wings. McAlister’s Deli provides a free big tea in-store from May 5 to May 12 with a valid ID. Teachers can also enter to win a catered lunch for 30 people. Insomnia Cookies gives a free classic cookie to teachers and nurses from May 6 to May 13. Molly’s Cupcakes in Des Moines is offering one free cupcake per teacher through May 9. 
Retailers are showing appreciation too. Staples provides 20% off in-store purchases and a free 12-pack of pens. Office Depot and OfficeMax offer 30% back in Bonus Rewards on qualifying purchases. Tech brands are getting in on the action. Samsung has up to $300 off select items through its Education Offers Program. Lenovo also offers a 5% discount sitewide for educators.
Sonic Drive-In rewards Teachers’ Circle members with special offers. Members get free snacks, buy-one-get-one-free Sonic Blasts, and $1.99 cheeseburgers.
Teacher Appreciation Week began in the 1950s with Eleanor Roosevelt’s efforts. The National Education Association (NEA) expanded it into a full week in 1986. The NEA celebrates and advocates for educators. This is especially important during challenges like funding problems and book bans.
Simple gestures of thanks, like a free meal, a discount, or a kind note, show how much we value teachers. They play vital roles in our lives, and these gestures make a big difference.
