National Teacher Appreciation Day
Thank the educators who shape America's future on National Teacher Appreciation Day! Teachers dedicate their lives to nurturing young minds, inspiring curiosity, and building the next generation of leaders. Show gratitude for these professionals who make a lasting impact on students and communities.
About National Teacher Appreciation Day
Thank the educators who shape America's future on National Teacher Appreciation Day! Teachers dedicate their lives to nurturing young minds, inspiring curiosity, and building the next generation of leaders. Show gratitude for these professionals who make a lasting impact on students and communities.
History & origins
National Teacher Appreciation Day is the Tuesday of Teacher Appreciation Week, and in 2026 it falls on May 5. Its roots are in National Teacher Day, which was first proposed in 1953 by Eleanor Roosevelt; the National Education Association has observed the day on the Tuesday of the first full week of May since 1985. National PTA later designated the full week in May as Teacher Appreciation Week, giving the observance its broader school-and-community focus in the United States.
Why it matters
National Teacher Appreciation Day highlights the work teachers do every day: building literacy, supporting student well-being, and shaping long-term academic success. It also draws attention to the practical realities of teaching, including out-of-pocket classroom spending and the need for community support through supplies, volunteering, and public gratitude.
How to celebrate
Write a thank you note to a teacher. Give teachers gifts or cards. Share teacher appreciation posts on social media. Donate classroom supplies. Volunteer to help teachers and schools.
Facts
- There are over 3.7 million teachers in American public schools
- The average teacher impacts over 3,000 students in their career
- Teachers spend an average of $500 of their own money on supplies
- Teacher Appreciation Week was established in 1984
- Studies show teacher quality is the most important school factor for student success
Upcoming dates
- Tuesday, May 5, 2026
- Wednesday, May 5, 2027
- Friday, May 5, 2028
- Saturday, May 5, 2029
- Sunday, May 5, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Teacher Appreciation Day in 2026?
National Teacher Appreciation Day is on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. It always falls during the first full week of May.
What is National Teacher Appreciation Day?
It is an annual observance that thanks teachers for their role in educating and supporting students. The day is part of Teacher Appreciation Week in the United States.
Who started National Teacher Appreciation Day?
Eleanor Roosevelt helped launch the idea in 1953 by urging recognition for teachers. The modern Tuesday observance was later established by the National Education Association, while National PTA expanded the celebration into Teacher Appreciation Week.
How do you celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Day?
A thank-you note, classroom supplies, or a small gift are all meaningful ways to celebrate. Schools and families also often post messages of gratitude, volunteer, or support teachers with food and supplies.
Is National Teacher Appreciation Day the same as Teacher Appreciation Week?
No, it is the single day that sits inside Teacher Appreciation Week. In the U.S., Teacher Appreciation Week is the broader observance, and National Teacher Appreciation Day is the Tuesday highlight.
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