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American Education Week

Explore new realms of knowledge during American Education Week – where learning gets celebrated and dreams get ignited!

Monday

16–20

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEThird Week in November (Monday to Friday)

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYSchool

SUBCATEGORYLiteracy

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Unleash your inner learner, as we proudly celebrate American Education Week on November 18! Founded in 1921 by the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Legion, this noteworthy week underscores the significance of bringing education to all, and the powerful role it plays in fostering an enlightened and prosperous society. Over the decades, the celebration has evolved to include the whole community, becoming a vibrant tribute to the enduring benefits of learning. Discover enrichment, unlock potential, and ignite ambition; after all, education isn't just about textbooks, it's about fostering curiosity and opening doors to a world of opportunities! Let's celebrate and honor the incredible power of learning on this remarkable day!

TIMELINE

American Education Week Timeline

Establishment of American Education Week

The National Education Association (NEA) and the American Legion founded American Education Week to signify the importance of education.

Gaining Momentum

By 1930, American Education Week became recognized by schools nationwide, fostering a culture of educational appreciation.

Theme-Based Celebrations Begin

American Education Week introduced annual themes to focus celebrations and enrich the learning experience.

Recognition from the White House

The President of the United States begins issuing annual proclamations in recognition of American Education Week.

Community Involvement

The week's observance expands beyond schools, involving communities in celebrating the power of education.

Centennial Celebrations

American Education Week marks its 100th anniversary, underlining a century of honoring and promoting education.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate American Education Week

Celebrate your educators

Write letters of appreciation to former teachers who have had a significant impact on your life. Recognize their effort and dedication, and let them know how they've shaped your journey. This small gesture can mean a lot to them.

DONATE

Donate educational materials

Donate books, craft supplies, or educational toys to a local school or community center. These materials can greatly enhance the learning experience for many children and provide resources that the institution might not be able to afford on their own.

PARTAKE

Partake in a learning challenge

Engage in a weeklong learning challenge. This could include learning a new word in a different language each day, solving complex riddles, or reading a book on a subject you know little about. Share your progress with friends and motivate each other to learn something new.

TOUR

Tour a local college or university

If you're still in school or considering further education, use this week to tour a local college or university. Get a feel for the campus and learn more about the programs they offer. If this isn’t possible, many institutions offer virtual tours online.

TEACH

Teach someone something new

Take the opportunity to impart knowledge you have on to others. Teach your younger sibling how to do a math problem, show your friend how to bake your favorite recipe, or guide a colleague through a complex work process. Sharing knowledge is a powerful way to celebrate American Education Week.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why American Education Week is Important

Sharing Knowledge and Resources

American Education Week encourages us to share our knowledge and resources to support learning in our community. Whether it's donating educational materials, teaching someone something new, or learning alongside students in local institutions - every action counts towards building an enlightened society.

Fostering a culture of lifelong learning

American Education Week brings the spotlight on the fundamental importance of education in our lives - not just during our school years, but as a lifelong journey! By celebrating this week, we continue to advocate for the learning culture, emphasizing that it's never too late to learn something new!

Celebrating educators and their invaluable role

We love American Education Week as it gives us an opportunity to honor educators who tirelessly work to impart knowledge and shape the future of our society. It's a week of appreciation for their commitment and dedication.

Related holidays

National Education Week

Unlock the power of learning during National Education Week! Let's honor teachers, ignite curiosity, and inspire future generations.

National Education Day

It's time to honor and celebrate the power of knowledge on National Education Day - let's inspire a love for learning in all!

Teacher Appreciation Week

Saluting the heroes of the classroom in Teacher Appreciation Week! Honor their dedication and influence, shaping minds, one student at a time.

Love Teaching Week

It's time to spread the love for teaching during Love Teaching Week! Join us in celebrating and honoring all the hardworking educators out there.

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