Teacher Appreciation Week 2025: Final days to score big on deals & free gifts
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Some readers here at The GrayVine may be proud former educators, have teachers in the family, or simply want to show a little extra gratitude to the folks shaping the next generation.
With that, we’d like to remind you of this special occasion.
Teacher Appreciation Week is a time-honored tradition, and in 2025, it’s not just about apples on desks—it’s about scoring some truly fantastic deals, freebies, and heartfelt thanks from businesses across the country.
But here’s the catch: these offers won’t last long! Whether you’re a retired teacher, a substitute, or you just want to pass along the good word to your favorite educator, now’s the time to act.
Let’s break down everything you need to know to make the most of Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 before the clock runs out.
When Is Teacher Appreciation Week 2025?
Mark your calendars! Teacher Appreciation Week runs from Monday, May 5 through Friday, May 9, 2025.
The highlight is National Teacher Day on Tuesday, May 6—today! That’s when many of the best deals and freebies are up for grabs.
Why Do We Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week?
Teachers have always been the backbone of our communities. From chalkboards to Chromebooks, they’ve adapted, inspired, and gone the extra mile—often with little recognition.
Teacher Appreciation Week is our chance to say 'thank you' in a big way, and businesses nationwide are joining in with special perks.
Who’s Eligible for These Deals?
Most offers are for current teachers, but many extend to retired educators, school staff, and even nurses (since National Nurses Week overlaps this year).
Typically, you’ll need to show a valid school ID, union card, or proof of employment. Some deals require you to sign up for a rewards program or app—don’t worry, we’ll walk you through it!
The Ultimate List: Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 Deals & Freebies
Here’s a roundup of the best national deals, plus a few tips to help you maximize your savings:
1. Chipotle
3. Sonic Drive-In
6. McAlister’s Deli
10. Raising Cane’s
Tips for Making the Most of Teacher Appreciation Week
Source: WCNC / Youtube.
Beyond the Freebies: Other Ways to Show Appreciation
While a free coffee or burger is always nice, sometimes the best gift is a heartfelt “thank you.”
Consider writing a note, sharing a favorite memory, or volunteering at a local school. Small gestures can mean the world to a teacher.
Read next: Nurses Week 2025: The ultimate guide to free food, exclusive deals, and big discounts for nurses!
Are you a teacher who scored a great freebie this week? Know of a local business offering something special? Share your tips and stories in the comments below!
From all of us at The GrayVine: Thank you, teachers, for your dedication, patience, and passion. You’ve made a difference in more lives than you’ll ever know.
With that, we’d like to remind you of this special occasion.
Teacher Appreciation Week is a time-honored tradition, and in 2025, it’s not just about apples on desks—it’s about scoring some truly fantastic deals, freebies, and heartfelt thanks from businesses across the country.
But here’s the catch: these offers won’t last long! Whether you’re a retired teacher, a substitute, or you just want to pass along the good word to your favorite educator, now’s the time to act.
Let’s break down everything you need to know to make the most of Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 before the clock runs out.
When Is Teacher Appreciation Week 2025?
Mark your calendars! Teacher Appreciation Week runs from Monday, May 5 through Friday, May 9, 2025.
The highlight is National Teacher Day on Tuesday, May 6—today! That’s when many of the best deals and freebies are up for grabs.
Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 in the United States runs from 5 to 9 May, with National Teacher Day on 6 May. Image source: National Cancer Institute / Unsplash.
Why Do We Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week?
Teachers have always been the backbone of our communities. From chalkboards to Chromebooks, they’ve adapted, inspired, and gone the extra mile—often with little recognition.
Teacher Appreciation Week is our chance to say 'thank you' in a big way, and businesses nationwide are joining in with special perks.
Who’s Eligible for These Deals?
Most offers are for current teachers, but many extend to retired educators, school staff, and even nurses (since National Nurses Week overlaps this year).
Typically, you’ll need to show a valid school ID, union card, or proof of employment. Some deals require you to sign up for a rewards program or app—don’t worry, we’ll walk you through it!
The Ultimate List: Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 Deals & Freebies
Here’s a roundup of the best national deals, plus a few tips to help you maximize your savings:
1. Chipotle
- What’s the Deal? Enter to win a free burrito! Chipotle is giving away 100,000 burritos to teachers and 100,000 to healthcare workers.
- How to Get It: Sign up online by May 12. Winners are chosen at random, so cross your fingers!
- Pro Tip: You don’t need to make a purchase to enter—just register and wait for the good news.
- What’s the Deal? Two sweet offers for Tim's Rewards members:
- Buy one donut, get one free
- Buy a dozen donuts, get six free
- How to Get It: Activate the deal in the Tim Hortons app or website before you buy.
- Pro Tip: These deals are for US locations only and require a rewards account.
Numerous restaurants and chains are offering special deals, freebies, and discounts exclusively for teachers, most of which require a valid school ID or participation in loyalty programs. Image source: Annika Gordon / Unsplash.
3. Sonic Drive-In
- What’s the Deal? Multiple app-only offers for teachers, including:
- $1.99 Quarter Pound Double Cheeseburger
- Free side with purchase
- Buy one Sonic Blast, get one free
- How to Get It: Join the SONIC Teachers’ Circle in the Sonic app and order online.
- Pro Tip: Offers run through May 9, so don’t wait!
- What’s the Deal? Free soft drink, sweet tea, or hot/iced coffee on May 6.
- Where? Select locations in Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri.
- How to Get It: Show your school ID at the counter.
- Pro Tip: Not all locations participate—call ahead to confirm.
- What’s the Deal? Free set of Tru Red Stick Pens and 20% off in-store purchases.
- How to Get It: Show your teacher ID at checkout.
- Pro Tip: Stock up on classroom (or home office) essentials while you’re there!
6. McAlister’s Deli
- What’s the Deal? Free tea or half-tea, half-lemonade with any purchase, May 5–12.
- How to Get It: Show your educator ID at checkout.
- Pro Tip: Nurses are included, too!
- What’s the Deal? 20% off dine-in orders for teachers with valid ID, through May 12.
- How to Get It: Ask your server and show your school ID.
- Pro Tip: Participation varies—call your local BWW to double-check.
- What’s the Deal? Free select breakfast item from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. through May 9.
- How to Get It: Show your teacher ID at the counter.
- Pro Tip: Not available in the app—must order in person.
- What’s the Deal? Free five-piece boneless wings with fries on May 6 (dine-in only).
- How to Get It: Show your school ID.
- Pro Tip: Perfect for a post-school treat!
Some businesses are running larger giveaways, such as Raising Cane’s, which is offering teachers a chance to win an all-expenses-paid holiday or funds for classroom makeovers. Image source: Element5 Digital / Unsplash.
10. Raising Cane’s
- What’s the Deal? Enter to win an all-expenses-paid vacation or $1,000 classroom makeover.
- How to Get It: Register online by May 9.
- Pro Tip: Ten winners for each prize—why not you?
- What’s the Deal? Some locations offer freebies or discounts on May 6.
- How to Get It: Show your school ID; check with your local restaurant for details.
- Pro Tip: Offers vary widely, so call ahead.
Tips for Making the Most of Teacher Appreciation Week
- Bring Your ID: Most deals require proof you’re an educator.
- Download Apps in Advance: Many offers are app-exclusive—set up your accounts early.
- Check Local Participation: Not all locations honor national deals, so call ahead.
- Share the Love: Know a teacher? Forward this article or treat them to a donut or coffee!
Source: WCNC / Youtube.
Beyond the Freebies: Other Ways to Show Appreciation
While a free coffee or burger is always nice, sometimes the best gift is a heartfelt “thank you.”
Consider writing a note, sharing a favorite memory, or volunteering at a local school. Small gestures can mean the world to a teacher.
Read next: Nurses Week 2025: The ultimate guide to free food, exclusive deals, and big discounts for nurses!
Are you a teacher who scored a great freebie this week? Know of a local business offering something special? Share your tips and stories in the comments below!
From all of us at The GrayVine: Thank you, teachers, for your dedication, patience, and passion. You’ve made a difference in more lives than you’ll ever know.
