How to Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week

Teachers are the heartbeat of education. They are the ones who spark curiosity, ignite dreams, and quietly build the future, one lesson at a time. Their relentless dedication, compassion, and resilience deserve more than a fleeting moment of gratitude; they deserve a constant chorus of appreciation.

At a time when our nation faces a worsening teacher shortage, their work has never been more critical or more heroic. Across the country, classrooms sit empty, vacancies grow, and students face the very real risk of falling behind. But there are the teachers who continue to show up, to innovate, and to lead with heart even when the system is crumbling all around them. They are the difference-makers standing in the gap.

While Teacher Appreciation Week gives us an opportunity to shine a spotlight on their extraordinary contributions, the reality is that every interaction with a teacher is a chance to say, "We see you. We value you. We thank you." 

Why Teachers Matter More Than Ever

In today’s rapidly changing world, teachers are the cornerstone of community success and growth. Unfortunately, in many ways, teachers remain undervalued despite the fact they make one of the greatest impacts on society. Student success doesn't just affect students and their families—it affects every member of the community.

A well-educated population strengthens the workforce, fuels economic development, improves civic engagement, and enriches the culture of a community. When a community values and supports its educators, it invests in its own future. Establishing and maintaining a culture of respect for teachers is crucial to creating communities that are educated, thriving, and resilient.

How Proximity Learning Celebrates Teachers Year-Round

At Proximity Learning, we’re committed to celebrating and highlighting the extraordinary contributions of our virtual teachers every single day, not just once a year.

That’s why our year-round Teacher Feature Series spotlights the stories of teachers who are making a difference, bringing to life the passion, creativity, and dedication they bring to their virtual classrooms and beyond. Through these stories, we show that teaching isn’t just a profession, it’s a purposeful and meaningful calling.

We invite you to watch and share these inspiring features as part of our ongoing effort to elevate and honor educators. If you work with teachers or are in educational leadership, consider a way to highlight the teachers in your community. 

Simple Ways You Can Show Your Appreciation

Appreciating a teacher doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, thoughtful gestures can make a huge difference. 

Here are a few easy ways to show your gratitude:

• Say thank you. A simple "thank you" at the right moment can mean the world.
• Send an email to a principal. Highlight the incredible work a teacher is doing and copy the teacher so they can read it too.
• Write a handwritten card. A heartfelt note can have a lasting impact.

Moving Forward: A Culture of Respect and Recognition

Teachers are more than instructors—they are mentors, motivators, role models, and builders of the future. It’s our responsibility as communities, schools, and education partners to ensure they feel supported and celebrated year-round.

As we continue our mission at Proximity Learning to connect students with expert virtual teachers, we never lose sight of the human beings behind the lessons. They are the heart of education, and they deserve our recognition every day. Join us in making teacher appreciation a 365-day movement. 

Discounts for Teacher Appreciation Week

Register with id.me to get teacher discounts and many retailers. 

• 15% off eligible Yeti products
• 30% off Stanley
• 30% off Adidas
• 10% off Quince
• 20% off Under Armour
• 5% Cash Back on StubHub
• 30% off Samsung
• 15% off RayBan
• 10% off Academy
• 15% off select iRobot
• 8% Hotels.com
• 20% Tula Skincare
• 50% off AAA
• 20% Topgolf

Additionally, find teacher discounts directly through:

• 60% off Adobe Creative Cloud
• Free access to Canva
• 20% off Eduporium
• 10% off Windows devices
• 3% off Fat Brain Toys
• 15% off Joann
• 15% off Michael’s
• 25% off Office Depot Printing
• 20% off Party City
• 15% off Colorescience
• 20% off Columbia
• 15% off Crocs
• 20% off Dagne Dover
• 15% off J.Crew
• 15% off Levi’s
• 10% off L.L. Bean
• 15% off Madewell
• 20% off Rothy’s
• 40% off Tarte
• 15% off KitchenAid
• 20% off Books-a-Million
• 25% Barnes & Noble 
• 10% off Half Priced Books
• Free books at ThriftBooks

Value teachers year-round

Teachers shape not only the lives of their students but the future of our communities. Their impact deserves to be recognized every day—not just once a year. Want to learn how you can support and uplift educators year-round? Check out Evan Erdberg’s new book, #TeachersServeToo.

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