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Description
The journey to establishing Teacher Appreciation Week began in 1944 when Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge wrote to politicians and educational professionals advocating for a national day to honor teachers. However, it wasn't until 1953 that former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt convinced Congress to create the first Teacher Appreciation Day .
Fast forward to 1980, when the National Education Association (NEA) and state affiliates lobbied Congress to establish National Teacher Day on March 7. Although Congress did not adopt the day, the NEA continued to observe it annually. In 1985, the NEA designated the first full week of May as Teacher Appreciation Week, expanding the celebration to honor educators for an entire week .
History
Before we dive into the fun ways to celebrate, let’s take a moment to appreciate how Teacher Appreciation Week even came to be. It didn’t just pop up overnight like a surprise pop quiz. Nope, this meaningful week has roots that go back decades, and it started with a teacher who had a vision—and a lot of determination.
Back in 1944, a teacher from Arkansas named Mattye Whyte Woodridge had an idea. She believed that educators deserved national recognition for their contributions to society. So, she started writing letters to political leaders, asking for a day to honor teachers across the country. And let’s be honest—writing to politicians isn’t something most of us do for fun!
Her persistence paid off when she gained support from none other than First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. In 1953, Roosevelt took the idea to Congress, and as a result, the United States celebrated its first national Teacher Day.
But the calendar wasn’t quite set yet. For a while, Teacher Appreciation Day bounced around different dates like a substitute teacher trying to find their assigned classroom. In 1980, the National Education Association (NEA) stepped in and helped give the celebration some structure. For a few years, Teacher Day was observed on the Tuesday of the first full week in March.
Eventually, the NEA made a formal recommendation: why not give teachers a whole week of love instead of just one day? And thus, in 1985, Teacher Appreciation Week became official. Since then, it’s been celebrated every year during the first full week of May—which in 2025 falls on May 4–10.
So the next time someone asks, “What’s the big deal about Teacher Appreciation Week?”—you can tell them it all started with one teacher, a lot of letter writing, and a little help from the First Lady.
How To Celebrate
1. Write Heartfelt Notes
Encourage students and parents to pen personalized thank-you notes expressing gratitude and highlighting the positive impact teachers have had on their lives .
2. Organize Classroom Decorations
Decorate the classroom or school with banners, posters, and balloons to create a festive atmosphere honoring teachers. Consider displaying inspiring quotes about teaching and learning .
3. Create Gift Baskets
Put together themed gift baskets filled with goodies like coffee, chocolates, stationery, or classroom supplies. Personalize the baskets based on each teacher's interests .
4. Host a Special Meal
Organize a special breakfast or luncheon for teachers and staff, allowing them to relax and enjoy each other's company .
5. Support Professional Development
Provide teachers with access to workshops, seminars, or online courses that can enhance their teaching skills and knowledge .
Amazing Facts
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Long Work Hours: One study indicated that the average workweek for teachers was 53 hours.
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Commitment to Leadership: In one survey, teachers made it clear they were not in it for the money—97% noted that good school leadership was the most important factor for them to stay in their role.
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Contributions to Society: Teachers are second only to the U.S. Military as the occupation that most heavily contributed to the well-being of society.
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Personal Investment: Studies show that at some point, 94% of teachers go into their own pockets for classroom purchases.
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Retirement Advantages: Most teachers are eligible for a 403(b) plan because of the nature of their employer, i.e., public schools .
Why We Love
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Recognizing Dedication: Teachers often go above and beyond, spending countless hours preparing lessons, grading assignments, and supporting students' emotional well-being.
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Building Relationships: Educators form lasting bonds with students, becoming mentors and role models who positively impact lives.
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Creating Safe Spaces: Teachers provide environments where students feel valued, heard, and encouraged to explore their potential.
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Inspiring Growth: Through their guidance, teachers ignite curiosity and a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom.
Faq's
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18
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26
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