How to Celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week

How can you ensure ALL your teachers feel celebrated? 👩‍🏫🍎

National Teacher Appreciation Week happens during the first full week of May each year. It’s a jam-packed week of honoring teachers and recognizing the lasting contributions they make to students’ lives.

Let’s dive into 5 ways you can appreciate all the hard work your teachers have done this year. 📚⭐

How did National Teacher Appreciation Week start?

The day has a unique, albeit somewhat vague, origin story but supposedly, an Arkansas teacher in 1944 named Mattye Whyte Woodridge began campaigning for an official day to honor the work and impact of teachers by sending letters to politicians and advocates of education. Soon, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt felt a call to the cause.

In 1953, Eleanor Roosevelt played a pivotal role in persuading Congress that there needed to be an official day that recognized teachers. And while she was successful, it wasn’t until 1980 when the lobbying efforts of the National Education Association (NEA) resulted in an official National Teacher Day.

Download your FREE teacher feedback survey template to retain more employees. 👨‍🏫

Why should my school celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week?

Make teachers feel seen and heard. ❤️

By celebrating National Teacher Appreciation Week, administrators and directors can show their support for their teachers’ hard work and dedication, while also promoting a positive and empathetic school culture.

Championing Educators: 5 impactful ways to honor your teachers

1. Provide Recognition: Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate your teachers’ hard work and dedication. Consider hosting a special recognition ceremony, highlighting exceptional teachers in your school or district. This can include presenting awards or certificates of recognition.

2. Professional Development Opportunities: Provide opportunities for your teachers to further their professional growth and development. Offer workshops, training sessions, or conferences focused on topics of interest to your teachers.

3. Support Classroom Supplies: Ensure that your teachers have the necessary resources and supplies they need to effectively teach. Consider providing funding for classroom supplies, technology, or equipment that can enhance teaching and learning.

4. Encourage Work-Life Balance: Teaching can be a demanding profession, and it’s important to support your teachers’ well-being. Encourage your teachers to take care of themselves by promoting work-life balance, providing wellness programs, or offering flexible work arrangements.

5. Collaborate with Parents and Students: Encourage parents and students to show their appreciation for teachers during National Teacher Appreciation Week. This can include creating thank-you cards, participating in volunteer activities, or hosting a special event to celebrate teachers.

National Teacher Appreciation Week

Go the extra mile: Encourage feedback to build a collaborative environment 

The ultimate tactic to support your teachers is to get their input. Collect feedback on what’s working, what’s not, and how to help teachers manage their day-to-day with ease. 

Claim your FREE teacher feedback survey template to build a strong culture that boosts retention. ✅