Creative Ways to Show Educator Appreciation for Your Staff

Principals play a key role in cultivating a positive and supportive culture within their schools. As Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5–9, 2025) approaches, it’s the perfect time to go beyond the usual gestures and try some creative, meaningful ways to recognize and honor the incredible efforts of your teachers.��

Below are 15 ideas to help school leaders celebrate teachers and foster a sense of connection and gratitude across the building:��

Help Teachers Enjoy Deals and Discounts��

Many restaurants, stores, and online retailers offer freebies and discounts during Teacher Appreciation Week. We’ve compiled a list of more than 65 deals you can share with teachers. You can also encourage them to ! ��

Make an Appreciation Routine��

Regularly shining the spotlight on your staff, via a post from your school social media accounts, an email blast, or just an old-fashioned shout-out during your next team meeting, is great way to show you see the incredible things they are doing and value how hard they are working. You can even start sharing�� with your staff right now.��

Choose a Fun Theme��

Arranging a special staff lunch, setting up a coffee and donuts one morning, or even taking the time to celebrate a teacher’s birthday are all easy ways to show your staff you care. But taking the extra step of including a fun theme can really wow the crowd by showing that you’re willing to put in the extra effort to make things special.�� by Julie David.��

Write Personalized Thank You Notes��

A handwritten note from the principal recognizing each teacher’s unique impact can go a long way in making them feel seen and appreciated. To make them authentic and meaningful, be sure to set aside time to share something personalized for each of your teachers. ��

Give Classroom Coverage Breaks��

Offer short breaks by stepping in to cover a class. As everyone challenged by tight school schedules can understand, even 30 minutes of downtime feel like the world to an overextended teacher.��

Choose a ‘Star of the Week’��

Go the extra mile by periodically selecting a member of your staff to be the teacher’s lounge ‘Star of the Week.’ You can find a simple Star of the Week template online, and either have your Star Educator fill it out themselves with a few fun “get-to-know-me” facts or create their Star of the Week poster yourself. Once it’s ready, find a place to put it up where everyone can see. It may seem a little silly at first, but spotlighting your teachers shows that you see them (and appreciate) who they are, inside and outside of the school building. ��

Set Up Catered Meals and Coffee Stations��

Here’s a chance to teach your teachers: this week, there is such a thing as a free lunch. Bring in breakfast, lunch, or create a rotating snack and coffee bar to keep spirits high throughout the week.��

Arrange Student-Led Appreciation��

Organize ways for students to share their thanks—whether through morning announcements, a gratitude wall, or heartfelt notes delivered to teachers. As much as teachers enjoy being celebrated by their principal, there’s nothing like appreciation from students. ��

Organize “Room Service” for Teachers��

Design a simple menu where teachers can request small treats or supplies to be delivered to their rooms by staff or volunteers.��

Celebrate Themed Spirit Days��

Plan lighthearted dress-up days that give everyone a reason to smile—think “decades day” to dress like the ‘80s or ‘90s, dress like your teacher, or favorite book characters.��

Plan On-Campus Wellness Breaks��

Partner with a local spa or therapist to provide a day of chair massages or transform the lounge into a peaceful recharge zone. Make sure to plan for coverage during the day so teachers can truly relax and take advantage of the offer. ��

Encourage Self-Care��

Teachers are under a lot of pressure and we know they put their whole selves into their work. It can often feel difficult to ask for support when needed, or they may simply feel too busy to even think about it. Make it a routine to encourage and support self-care. You can start by sharing these ideas. ��

Arrange Gift Card Giveaways��

Secure donations from local businesses and run daily drawings for gift cards or small prizes. It’s a simple way to inject joy into each day (and don’t forget to have your teachers ).��

Honor Teachers with Public Recognition��

Use school announcements, social media, and even campus signage to highlight your teachers’ achievements and contributions.��

Make it a Surprise!��

Take these ideas to the next level by making them a surprise. After all, who doesn’t love some unexpected perks?��

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Let’s Celebrate Teachers, Together��

Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 is more than just a few days on the calendar—it’s a meaningful opportunity for schools and communities to come together in recognition of those shaping our future every day.��

Whether it’s a handwritten note or a free coffee, these thoughtful gestures make a big impact. When principals lead the charge in showing appreciation, it sets the tone for a school culture rooted in respect, gratitude, and collaboration.��