You’re expected to teach what colors and shapes are, and the sounds each letter makes. (Not a teacher? Try explaining that to a friend — it’s trickier than it seems.)
You also need to memorize roughly 60 new names every semester.
And possibly the most dreadful task: many of you must grade final papers — something I found so grueling that I left the classroom after a single year. No regrets.
But much like how Pretzel Day brings a bright spot to Stanley Hudson’s tough existence on “The Office,” Teacher Appreciation Week can make all that hard work feel worthwhile.
During this brief week, people finally realize that a pop quiz means extra effort for you too. They remember that summers off barely compensate for trying to coax sense into hormone-driven, still-developing minds all day long.
Because you deserve recognition.
… and, let’s be honest, mostly because free food.
Teacher Appreciation Week Freebies and Offers
Educators influence everyone, so plenty of companies show their thanks with freebies and special pricing.
Many promotions happen on National Teacher Appreciation Day — typically Tuesday, May 8 — while others run across the entire first full week of May, designated as Teacher Appreciation Week.
So when the last bell rings, leave the classroom and enjoy some of these 10 treats! You’ve earned every one of them.
1. A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts
Need supplies for projects? A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts will give you 20% off your entire purchase — and you don’t have to limit it to Teacher Appreciation Week, since you can get 15% off on every visit to A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts.
2. Chipotle
No need to practice your lessons if you stop by Chipotle on Tuesday, May 8 — one plus one becomes two for the price of one thanks to a BOGO Chipotle offer celebrating Teacher Appreciation Day.
It doesn’t matter if you teach preschool, homeschool, college, or work in faculty or staff positions — this BOGO promotion is open to all educators. Just bring a valid ID and visit your local Chipotle after 3 p.m.
3. Chick-fil-A
Because individual Chick-fil-A restaurants are franchise-owned, there isn’t a single nationwide promotion — but many locations offer free or reduced-price food for Teacher Appreciation Day.
Call your preferred spot to see what they’re doing! And if you don’t score free grub… well, you know where the ruler is kept.
4. Cicis Pizza
Enjoy the buffet at Cicis for Teacher Appreciation Day on May 8. Bring this coupon and a valid school ID to your local Cicis to receive a free adult buffet.
5. Einstein Bros. Bagels
Whether you’re a teacher treating colleagues or someone wanting to recognize an educator, you can kick off Teacher Appreciation Week with this catering offer from Einstein Bros. Bagels.
Order pickup or delivery between May 7 and May 11 and take 20% off using promo code 9053.
6. EVOS
Here’s one our local readers in the Tampa Bay area will be excited about.
Bring a friend to EVOS between May 7–11. When they purchase one meal, salad or bowl, you’llreceive yours free in celebration of Teacher Appreciation Day.
7. The Greene Turtle
Live near a Greene Turtle sports bar?
This Tuesday, May 8, get a free meal worth up to $12, or $12 off a pricier item with the purchase of a beverage.
8. Major League Baseball
Hey teachers — who wants to catch a ballgame?
Numerous Major League Baseball teams honor educators with ticket deals, special offers and freebies. Teacher appreciation nights include the Philadelphia Phillies on May 11, the L.A. Dodgers on May 8, and the Oakland A’s on May 22. Check your local team’s site for details.
9. PDQ
Tired of school cafeteria fare?
Get 50% off your bill at PDQ all day Tuesday, May 8 with a valid teacher ID.
10. Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
Here’s another Teacher Appreciation Day perk: Receive a free box combo at Raising Cane’s from 6–9 p.m. on May 8 when you show your school ID.
Want More Great Teacher Perks?
These 21 discounts are valid year-round — check them out if you’re hunting more savings.
And truly — thank you, teachers. For everything you do.
Junior writer Maria Lopez and editorial assistant Daniel Gray helped with this article.
Also see resources on affordable teacher housing, thoughtful teacher gifts, and ongoing teacher discounts for more ways to support educators.
