Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week with Discounts and Freebies in Florida

Tampa, Florida — National Teacher Appreciation Week is here, running from May 5 to May 9, and offers various discounts and giveaways to celebrate educators across the United States.

This week-long event includes National Teacher Day on May 6, where teachers can access promotions from numerous businesses. Chipotle, for example, is giving away 100,000 free burrito e-gift cards to teachers and healthcare workers. To enter, they must verify their employment status within 48 hours of receiving an email.

Whataburger is also participating in the recognition of educators by providing a free breakfast menu item each morning from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. between May 5 and May 9. In addition, Whataburger will award $1,000 to 75 teachers for their schools, celebrating its 75th anniversary.

Departments at McDonalds will offer a free soft drink, sweet tea, or hot or iced drip coffee to teachers on May 6 with a valid teacher ID. Buffalo Wild Wings is providing a 20% discount for educators through May 6, along with a special boneless wings deal.

McAlister’s Deli is treating teachers to a complimentary big tea from May 5 to May 12, also requiring valid identification. Insomnia Cookies is giving away free classic cookies from May 6 to May 13 for teachers and nurses.

Reflecting on the origins of Teacher Appreciation Week, it began as a single day in the 1950s after Eleanor Roosevelt lobbied Congress to acknowledge teachers. The National Education Association formalized it into a week-long celebration in 1986 due to strong public support.

Though many teachers face challenges, including high stress levels, surveys show a significant commitment to their students. According to a recent survey, 73% of parents rated their child’s teachers as excellent or good.

As the appreciation week unfolds, various restaurants and retailers aim to highlight the contributions of educators. Sonic Drive-In is offering its rewards program members exclusive promotions, while Staples provides a 20% discount on in-store purchases with a valid teacher ID.

This week is an opportunity for students and communities to recognize the hard work of teachers. The efforts made by local businesses reflect a shared dedication to honoring those who educate the next generation.