Every spring, as the calendar turns to May, a sense of gratitude and celebration fills the halls of schools across Tempe, AZ. The first full week of May this year, from Monday, May 5, 2025, to Friday, May 9, 2025, marks National Teacher Appreciation Week, a time when communities come together to recognize the educators who shape our future. For me, this week is not just about celebration but reflection, gratitude, and the stories that make teaching such a remarkable calling.
In Tempe, the energy during this special week is palpable. From heartfelt thank-yous to community-wide events, there’s a collective effort to spotlight those who dedicate their lives to nurturing young minds. As someone who has witnessed the impact of excellent teaching firsthand, I find this week a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make in a child’s life.
The Roots of National Teacher Appreciation Week
The origins of National Teacher Appreciation Week are a testament to the power of advocacy and the enduring value of education. The movement began in the early 1940s, when Mattie Whyte Woodridge, a teacher from Arkansas, recognized the need to honor educators for their contributions to society. She wrote letters to governors and leaders, eventually reaching First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. Inspired by Woodridge’s passion, Roosevelt persuaded Congress in 1953 to proclaim a National Teacher Day.
While the first celebration took place in March, the tradition evolved over the years. By 1984, the National Parent Teacher Association designated the first week of May as Teacher Appreciation Week, with the National Education Association following suit. Today, this week stands as a nationwide tradition, reminding us all of the vital role teachers play in shaping academic skills, character, creativity, and resilience.
People celebrate this event because teachers do far more than deliver lessons- they inspire, mentor, and guide students through big and small challenges. National Teacher Appreciation Week is a chance to thank educators and acknowledge their profound impact on our communities.
Spotlight on Educators: Everyday Heroes in Tempe
Some educators go above and beyond the call of duty in every school across Tempe, AZ. I’ve seen teachers who arrive early to offer extra help, those who stay late to coach after-school activities, and others who create innovative lessons that spark curiosity in even the most reluctant learners. Some educators quietly support students facing tough times, offering a listening ear or a word of encouragement that makes all the difference.
Some teachers transform classrooms into places of wonder, using creativity to make learning come alive. Others are mentors, guiding students through personal challenges and helping them discover their strengths. In Tempe, I’ve witnessed teachers leading community service projects, organizing school-wide events, and fostering a sense of belonging for every child. Their dedication is not limited to academics; it extends to nurturing the whole student and building a brighter future for all.
These stories are not rare exceptions- they are the heartbeat of our schools. During National Teacher Appreciation Week, these everyday acts of kindness, innovation, and perseverance deserve the spotlight.
Ways to Show Thanks: Meaningful Gestures From the Heart
As National Teacher Appreciation Week approaches, I often consider how parents and students can express gratitude. Sometimes, the most meaningful gestures are the simplest ones. A handwritten note with specific memories or words of appreciation can brighten a teacher’s entire week. Small, thoughtful gifts-crafted by students or chosen with care-carry a special significance because they reflect genuine effort and gratitude.
Social media has become a powerful tool for sharing appreciation. Posting a heartfelt message or sharing a favorite classroom memory can publicly acknowledge the hard work of educators and inspire others to do the same. Even a quick message or email can let teachers know their impact is noticed and valued.
The key is sincerity. Whether it’s a creative card, a favorite treat, or a public shoutout, what matters most is acknowledging the time, energy, and care that teachers invest in their students every day.
School and Community Events: Coming Together in Tempe
Throughout Tempe, AZ, schools and community organizations plan various activities to celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week. Many schools host special breakfasts or luncheons, inviting staff to relax and enjoy a meal together. Some organize themed days, like “Dress Like Your Favorite Teacher” or “Thank You Thursday”-to add a fun twist to the week.
Community groups often partner with schools to provide tokens of appreciation, such as flowers, classroom supplies, or banners displayed throughout the campus. Parent-teacher organizations may coordinate group gifts or organize events where students can present their teachers with handmade crafts or letters.
In addition to school-based celebrations, local libraries and recreation centers sometimes offer free workshops or events for educators, recognizing their commitment to lifelong learning. These activities honor teachers and strengthen the bonds between schools and the broader Tempe community.
Local Discounts for Teachers: Special Offers in Tempe
During National Teacher Appreciation Week, many Tempe, AZ, businesses support educators. Restaurants often provide free or discounted meals for teachers, while coffee shops might offer a complimentary drink with a school ID. Bookstores and office supply stores frequently run special promotions, making it easier for teachers to stock up on classroom essentials.
Some local gyms and wellness centers extend free trial memberships or discounted classes, encouraging teachers to take time for self-care. Even salons and spas may join in, offering reduced service rates as a thank-you for the hard work teachers do all year.
These gestures, big and small, reflect the community’s appreciation and help make National Teacher Appreciation Week a truly special time for educators in Tempe.
Letters of Gratitude: The Power of a Simple Thank You
One of the most powerful ways to honor teachers is through words. I encourage everyone- students, parents, and community members- to take a moment during National Teacher Appreciation Week to write a note of thanks to a past or current teacher. These messages, whether delivered in person, by mail, or shared online, have a lasting impact.
I’ve seen letters that recall a teacher’s encouragement during a challenging year, or thank them for sparking a lifelong love of reading or science. Some express gratitude for a teacher’s patience, humor, or unwavering belief in a student’s potential. Even a few sentences can mean the world to someone dedicated to helping others grow.
Here are a few touching sentiments I’ve come across:
“Thank you for believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Your encouragement changed my life.”
“I still remember the way you made math fun and helped me see that I could do anything if I worked hard.”
“You taught me more than just facts-you taught me how to be kind, curious, and confident.”
These words are a reminder that the actual value of teaching is measured not just in test scores, but in the lives touched and the futures shaped.
Celebrating the Heart of Tempe
As National Teacher Appreciation Week draws to a close in Tempe, AZ, I am reminded of the extraordinary dedication, creativity, and compassion teachers bring to their work daily. From the history of this celebration to the stories of local educators, it’s clear that teaching is more than a profession; it’s a calling that changes lives.
This week is a chance for all of us to pause and say thank you, not just with words but with actions that reflect our deep appreciation. Whether through community events, special discounts, or heartfelt letters, the spirit of gratitude in Tempe is unmistakable.
Let’s carry this spirit forward during the first week of May and throughout the year. Our teachers deserve nothing less than our ongoing support and recognition. After all, when we celebrate our educators, we celebrate the foundation of our community’s future.
Sources: nationaltoday.com, ace-ed.org, skiptomylou.org, blog.tcea.org, teachersoftomorrow.org
Header Image Source: pexels.com
