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National Teacher Day

Show your appreciation to teachers on National Teacher Day - thank them for their dedication and hard work in shaping young minds!

Tuesday

May 2027

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

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YEARLY DATETuesday in the First Full Week of May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYEducators

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Show your teachers some appreciation on National Teacher Day, which falls on Tuesday of the first full week in May! This day is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the vital role that teachers play in our lives. It was created by the National Education Association in 1953 and is celebrated annually to recognize all of the hard work and dedication that teachers put into helping students succeed. So take a moment to thank your teacher for all they do, or give them a special gift as a token of your appreciation. Together, let's make sure their invaluable contributions are appreciated!

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TIMELINE

National Teacher Day Timeline

National Teacher Day's Inception

The National Education Association (NEA) in conjunction with Eleanor Roosevelt convinced Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day.

Yearly Recognition Established

After much advocacy, the NEA and its affiliates established the first week of May as the official week for observing National Teacher Day annually.

Tuesday of First Full May Week

NEA and its affiliates moved the official observation of National Teacher Day to Tuesday of the first full week in May.

Adding a Public Relation Component

The NEA began launching annual themes and public relation kits for National Teacher Day to further promote the cause.

Google Doodle Celebration

For the first time, Google celebrated National Teacher Day with a special doodle on its homepage.

COVID-19 Pandemic Impact

Teachers showcased their resilience and adaptability, shifting to remote teaching due to the COVID-19 pandemic, amplifying the importance and relevance of this recognition day.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Teacher Day

Write a thank you card

Put your appreciation on paper and let your teacher know how much you value their hard work. It's easy, it's meaningful, and it will put a smile on their face.

GIFT

Gift a potted plant

A living reminder of the gratitude, select a potted plant that is easy to care for and can last for years. Your teacher will be able to enjoy the plant in their classroom or at home.

CREATE

Create a video tribute

Invite former students to record a video of themselves thanking their favorite teacher for all the lessons and support they gave throughout the years. Gather all the small tributes into one big thank you video.

SEND

Send an eCard

Don't have the time to send a real card? Send a virtual card instead! There are plenty of options online to choose from - funny or sentimental - your teacher will love it.

PLAN

Plan an appreciation lunch

Gather some of your favorite teacher's colleagues and plan a lunch in honor of the special day. It can be as simple as ordering pizza or as elaborate as hosting a five course meal at a fancy restaurant.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Teacher Day is Important

Teachers help create a better world

By educating young minds, teachers help create a better future for all of us. Through their teachings, they promote acceptance, understanding and empathy - values that can bring about real change in the world. National Teacher Day is an important reminder of the power teachers have to shape a brighter tomorrow!

Teachers shape our lives

Teachers are often the people who have the most influence on our lives. They provide us with knowledge, understanding and values that will stay with us throughout adulthood. Without teachers, we wouldn't be able to reach our full potentials!

Teachers guide us in decision making

Teachers are there for us when we need advice or guidance. They can provide us with the tools and resources needed to make informed decisions about our future. By listening to their words of wisdom, we can make choices that will best benefit ourselves and those around us!

Related holidays

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.

World Teachers’ Day

Show your appreciation for the amazing teachers in your life on World Teachers' Day - gifts, cards, and kind words are a great way to show your thanks!

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MON

Jan 2026