Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 is here, and it’s the perfect time to honour the educators who shape our future. From May 5 to May 9, with National Teacher Day falling on Tuesday, May 6, teachers, school staff, and other educators across the U.S. can enjoy a wide range of freebies, discounts, and exclusive deals from popular restaurants, retailers, and service providers.
Whether you’re a teacher looking to treat yourself or a parent searching for a thoughtful gesture, these educator-exclusive offers are the perfect way to say thank you.
🏫 What is Teacher Appreciation Week?
Teacher Appreciation Week was formally recognised in 1984 by the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) as the first full week in May to celebrate teachers. Its roots date back to 1953, when First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt urged Congress to create a dedicated day to recognise educators. Roosevelt famously said, “It is quite impossible to give teachers monetary compensation alone that will repay for their devotion to the job.”
Since then, schools and communities have celebrated teachers with heartfelt messages, gifts, classroom surprises, and now, exclusive discounts and promotions across the country.
🍔 Top Teacher Appreciation Week Deals 2025: Where to Get Free Food and Discounts
Here’s a roundup of the best Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 deals available nationwide. Most offers require a valid school ID or educator verification via Id.me, so make sure to check availability at your local location.
1. Chipotle – Free Burrito Giveaway
- Dates: Through May 13
- Teachers and healthcare workers can enter online for a chance to win a free burrito e-card. Chipotle will select 100,000 teachers and require Id.me verification within 48 hours.
2. Sonic Drive-In – Exclusive Teacher Perks
- Dates: May 5–9
- Sonic Teachers’ Circle Members can enjoy deals like:
- Free snack or side with purchase
- Buy One Get One (BOGO) SONIC Blasts
- $1.99 Double Cheeseburgers
- Sign up via the SONIC App by May 5 to qualify.
3. Whataburger – Free Breakfast
- Dates: May 5–9
- From 5–9 a.m., educators can claim a free breakfast item at participating locations with a valid ID. Offer valid in-store, drive-thru, and takeout.
4. Buffalo Wild Wings – 20% Off
- Dates: May 5–11
- Educators receive 20% off dine-in, call-in, or carry-out orders with a school ID.
5. Insomnia Cookies – BOGO Cookies
- Dates: May 5–11
- Teachers get a buy one, get one free Classic cookie in-store only with ID (excludes specialty flavours).
6. Logan’s Roadhouse – 20% Off Entrées
- Dates: May 5–12
- Teachers with a valid ID can enjoy 20% off entrées at participating locations.
7. Golden Corral – 20% Off Buffet
- Dates: May 5–9
- Teachers can show a school ID to get 20% off buffet purchases.
8. Smoothie King – Special Discounts
- Dates: May 5–9
- Select locations offer educator discounts. Contact your local Smoothie King for availability.
9. Einstein Bros. Bagels – 20% Off Gift Cards
- Gift a favorite educator a 20% discount on gift card purchases online.
10. Stitch Fix – 25% Off First Fix
- Dates: May 5–9 (expires 90 days after issuance)
- Teachers can get 25% off their first Fix after completing a style quiz and verifying via Id.me.
11. The Greene Turtle – Free Meal Up to $15
- Date: May 6 (National Teacher Day)
- Educators who dine in with a valid ID can get a free meal worth up to $15.
đź“Š Why Teacher Appreciation Matters More Than Ever
According to recent data:
- 73% of parents rated their children’s teachers as “excellent” or “good” in 2023 (Gallup).
- 77% of teachers reported frequent job-related stress, and 68% called it overwhelming (Pew, 2024).
- Over 30% of educators say they don’t feel appreciated (Horace Mann Survey, 2024).
Despite this, teachers remain deeply committed to their students and communities. Recognising their dedication—even with a small gesture or free meal—can make a meaningful difference.
🎉 More Ways to Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week 2025
Looking for more ways to recognise the educators in your life?
- Visit National PTA and We Are Teachers for DIY gift ideas and printable thank-you notes.
- Organise a classroom or school-wide appreciation event.
- Share kind words or testimonials online using hashtags like #ThankATeacher and #TeacherAppreciationWeek.
đź’ˇ Final Thoughts
Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 is more than just discounts—it’s a national moment of gratitude. As educators continue to navigate the challenges of modern classrooms, let’s all take the time to say a heartfelt thank you, whether through a free burrito, a handwritten note, or simply a smile.