Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 runs from May 5 to May 9, with National Teachers Day falling on Tuesday, May 6. Across the U.S., restaurants and retailers are showing their thanks to educators with exclusive deals and giveaways.
Why It Matters
According to a 2024 Pew Survey, 77% of teachers report their jobs are frequently stressful, and 68% say it’s overwhelming. Yet, most stay committed to their students. It’s time to show appreciation through both words and gestures.
How It All Began
The tradition began in 1953, with Eleanor Roosevelt lobbying for a national day to honor teachers. The National PTA made Teacher Appreciation Week official in 1984. It’s grown into a weeklong celebration recognized nationwide.
Top Teacher Freebies and Discounts for 2025
Chipotle
- Deal: Free burrito for 100,000 teachers (through May 13)
- How to Enter: Sign up online and verify employment via ID.me within 48 hours.
- Bonus: Supports Kids In Need Foundation and American Nurses Foundation.
Hilton & Embassy Suites (Florida locations)
- Offer: Discounted rates for summer travel
- Cities: Miami, Miami Beach, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach
- Booking Codes: Vary by location (e.g., PK5, PL5)
Smoothie King
- Offer: 20% off in-store orders (May 6–8)
- Requirement: Valid teacher ID
Sonic Drive-In
- Exclusive Offers (for Sonic Teachers’ Circle members):
- Free snack or side with purchase
- BOGO Sonic Blast
- $1.99 Quarter Pound Double Cheeseburger
- Free snack or side with purchase
Staples
- Offer: 20% off in-store purchases (May 4–10)
- Free Gift: 12-pack of Tru Red Stick Pens (while supplies last)
- Requirement: Teacher ID and Staples app
More Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 Deals
- Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant: 20% off on May 6
- Atomic Wings: Free 5-piece boneless wings + fries (dine-in, May 6)
- Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar: $5 margaritas on May 5, half-price appetizers nightly
- BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Awesome Achievement program with free Snickers Pizookie for students
- Box Tops for Education: $5 bonus to schools when scanning a receipt in May using code TEACHER
- Doodleface: 20% off crayon boards with code 20LOVETEACH (May 5–9)
Not Feeling Appreciated? You’re Not Alone
A March–April 2024 survey by Horace Mann found that over 30% of teachers don’t feel appreciated. Despite this, the majority say they’re still devoted to their mission. The company is offering a month of virtual events and prizes, including two $2,500 Liberty Travel gift cards.
How You Can Show Thanks
Want to go the extra mile? Visit websites like:
These sites offer activity ideas, thank-you templates, and creative projects to celebrate your favorite educators.
Source: USA Today
