As the academic year draws to a close, the annual National Teacher Appreciation Week, running from May 4 to May 8, provides an opportunity to celebrate the vital contributions of educators across the nation. This week, students and communities are encouraged to express their gratitude and admiration for the hard work and dedication of teachers, who play a crucial role in shaping the future.
However, despite this recognition, challenges persist for many educators. A recent Gallup survey conducted among over 2,000 U.S. teachers from October 16 to November 5, 2025, reveals that more than 21% of K-12 teachers report struggling to make ends meet on their salaries. This financial strain has led to nearly half of those teachers—46%—seeking second jobs unrelated to teaching. A significant 85% of those with side jobs work during the school year, highlighting the mounting pressure teachers face beyond their classroom responsibilities.
National Teachers Day, celebrated on May 5, has its roots in advocacy from Eleanor Roosevelt, who lobbied Congress for formal recognition in 1953. The National Education Association (NEA) subsequently established National Teacher Appreciation Week in 1985, ensuring that educators receive the recognition they deserve.
Throughout this week, numerous restaurants and businesses are offering special promotions aimed at thanking teachers for their hard work. Chipotle Mexican Grill is providing teachers a chance to win one of 100,000 free meals through its Teacher Appreciation Week giveaway, which runs until May 12. Teachers can enter by submitting their details on the Chipotle Teacher Thanks website, with winners being notified starting May 13.
Whataburger is also celebrating educators by offering free breakfasts on May 7, available nationwide from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. local time. Teachers can enjoy a complimentary breakfast by simply presenting their school ID, and Whataburger is additionally providing $1,000 classroom grants to 60 teachers across its operational states as part of its Feeding Student Success initiative.
Many other establishments have joined in showing their appreciation. For example, Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar is offering a $5 “Bad Ass Margarita,” while BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse allows teachers to distribute certificates for free desserts to elementary school students. Similarly, Buffalo Wild Wings is providing a 20% discount to educators dining in during the week.
Various initiatives from other eateries include Dog Haus’ 20% off meals and offerings from chains like Eddie Merlot’s, Einstein Bros. Bagels, and First Watch, which are all providing special deals for teachers. Furthermore, financial services company Horace Mann Educators Corp. has created several programs timed for the week, including giveaways and project funding opportunities for teachers.
With these perks and recognition, National Teacher Appreciation Week brings an essential focus on the important work educators do, even as many face financial difficulties. The collective emphasis on appreciation during this time offers a moment for communities to show support for those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation.
