Businesses Show Gratitude for Educators During Teacher Appreciation Week 2024

Businesses nationwide are expressing their appreciation for educators as Teacher Appreciation Week 2024 approaches. With more than 22,000 teenagers participating in the New York Times ‘How To: Informational Writing Contest for Teenagers,’ including 8th-grade students from Islander Middle School on Mercer Island, the importance of teachers in shaping student lives is being highlighted.

Recognized by the National Education Association (NEA), the upcoming National Teacher Appreciation Week, scheduled for May 6-10, 2024, aims to honor the tireless efforts of teachers across the United States. NEA President Becky Pringle emphasized the crucial role educators play in providing support and resources for student success, regardless of background.

Since its inception in 1985, National Teacher Day has been celebrated on the Tuesday of the first full week of May, underscoring the vital contributions of teachers in society. Events organized by PTAs at national, state, and local levels are set to honor teachers during this year’s Teacher Appreciation Week, themed ‘Teachers are Shining Stars.’

Historically, in 1953, former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt proposed the establishment of National Teacher Day to Congress. This idea later evolved into the tradition of Teacher Appreciation Week, which is observed annually during the first full week of May. Companies and restaurants are planning special offers for educators as a gesture of appreciation for their dedication.

Gift-giving during Teacher Appreciation Week is a common practice by parents and students. From gift cards to personalized items such as mugs and tote bags, a variety of presents are recommended to express gratitude for teachers’ hard work. Educational games, classroom decorations, or donations to a cause the teacher supports are also meaningful gestures of appreciation.

In Seattle, educators can enjoy deals on food and more as businesses participate in showing gratitude for teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week. The event, spanning from May 6 to May 10, acknowledges the dedication of teachers to their students and communities, with Teacher Appreciation Day officially falling on May 7. Organizations are encouraged to honor educators with gifts, letters, or kind words to show appreciation for their commitment to shaping future generations.