Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 is a national celebration running from May 5 to May 9, with National Teacher Appreciation Day observed on May 6. This event, organized by national groups like the National Education Association (NEA) and the National PTA, is dedicated to honoring the educators who shape young minds. Businesses across the United States join in by offering a variety of freebies, discounts, and special deals to show gratitude. This article compiles verified offers from restaurants, retailers, and service providers available during this period, providing a comprehensive guide for teachers to access these benefits.
The tradition of honoring teachers dates back to the 1950s, when Arkansas educator Mattie Whyte Woodridge began campaigning for a national day. In 1953, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt supported the idea and convinced Congress to establish a National Teacher Day. The celebration expanded to a full week in 1986 with support from the NEA. Today, Teacher Appreciation Week serves as a chance for students, parents, schools, and communities to express gratitude, often through handwritten letters, classroom surprises, personalized gifts, social media shoutouts using #ThankATeacher, volunteering, or donating school supplies.
Many teachers face significant challenges, with 77% reporting their job as frequently stressful or overwhelming according to a 2024 Pew Survey. Over 30% of teachers feel unappreciated, yet most remain committed to their students. Teachers also spend an average of $745 of their own money on classroom supplies annually, making these freebies and discounts particularly valuable. Businesses offer these promotions not only to show appreciation but also for positive public relations, though they are often poorly advertised. This guide focuses on verified offers for U.S. educators, emphasizing the need for valid teacher ID and advance confirmation of participation at local stores.
Restaurant and Dining Deals
Several restaurant chains are offering free meals, desserts, and discounts for teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week 2025. These deals typically require a valid teacher ID and may have location restrictions or specific time windows.
- Peter Piper Pizza: Teachers can receive a free 7-inch one-topping pizza from May 5 to May 9, between 3 and 7 p.m. This offer is valid only at locations in Arizona and New Mexico. Dine-in is required.
- Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant: On May 6, teachers get 20% off their entire bill. No additional details on location restrictions are provided.
- Atomic Wings: On May 6, teachers can enjoy free five-piece boneless wings and fries with dine-in only.
- BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Teachers receive free student awards for their class and a Snickers Pizookie reward for achievers. Specific dates or eligibility criteria are not detailed.
- Grimaldi’s Pizza: From May 5 to May 9, teachers receive 15% off orders with a valid school ID.
- Tijuana Flats: On May 7, teachers get 20% off with code NURTEA25 and valid ID.
- Vitality Bowls: Teachers receive 20% off all week with a teacher ID.
- Sullivan’s Steakhouse: Teachers can enjoy a free dessert with an entrée from May 5 to May 9.
- Eddie Merlot’s: Teachers receive a free dessert with purchase, though this offer is not valid with other discounts.
- Einstein Bros. Bagels: Teachers get 20% off gift cards, with the offer valid through June 24.
- La Madeleine: On May 6, teachers can access a buy-one-get-one (BOGO) bakery item via the rewards app.
- Original ChopShop: Teachers receive 10% off dine-in and carryout from May 5 to May 9.
Retail and Specialty Offers
Beyond dining, several retailers and specialty businesses are providing discounts on products and services. These offers often apply to in-store or online purchases and may require teacher verification.
- Doodleface: Teachers receive 20% off crayon boards using code 20LOVETEACH on Amazon or the company website.
- The Parking Spot: A May-only offer provides 25% off reservations through the end of 2025.
- Box Tops for Education: Teachers can earn a $5 bonus for their school with their first app receipt using code TEACHER.
Travel and Entertainment Discounts
Some travel and entertainment venues offer complimentary access or reduced rates for educators. These deals may be limited to specific locations or require advance booking.
- Hilton and Embassy Suites (Florida Locations): Teachers can use promo codes such as PK5, P1, PL5, TEAP, or TEP depending on the location for discounted stays.
- Museum of Illusions: Teachers receive free admission at all U.S. locations. There is also a raffle for three goodie bags as a bonus.
Contests and Giveaways
Businesses and organizations sometimes run contests and giveaways to further honor teachers. These opportunities often involve prizes or grants.
- Horace Mann Educators Corporation: As part of a Teacher Month expansion, there are weekly prizes and two $2,500 Liberty Travel gift cards.
- Whataburger: Teachers can be nominated for $1,000 grants.
Important Considerations for Accessing Offers
When seeking teacher appreciation deals, it is essential to verify participation at local stores and confirm specific requirements. Most deals require a valid teacher ID, and some are limited to particular dates or locations. Always call ahead to ensure the offer is available at your nearest branch. For example, Peter Piper Pizza’s offer is restricted to Arizona and New Mexico, while Hilton codes vary by Florida location.
The National PTA provides a toolkit for donating school supplies and volunteering, which can be another meaningful way to show appreciation. Social media campaigns using #ThankATeacher and tagging @NEAToday also amplify gratitude. Additionally, the NEA’s educator spotlight allows submissions of stories about extraordinary teachers.
World Teachers' Day on October 5, 2025, is another occasion for deals, though it is less widely celebrated in the U.S. than May’s Teacher Appreciation Week. Some businesses may extend offers through October 6. However, the provided sources focus primarily on the May 2025 events.
Conclusion
Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 offers a valuable opportunity for educators to access freebies, discounts, and special deals from a variety of businesses. From free pizzas and desserts to retail discounts and travel offers, these benefits acknowledge the hard work and financial contributions of teachers. By presenting a valid teacher ID and confirming offer details with local establishments, educators can fully utilize these promotions. This celebration not only provides practical benefits but also reinforces the community’s gratitude for teachers’ dedication to shaping future generations.