This Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5–9), we’re doing more than checking a box or sending in cupcakes. We’re asking them the best ways to say thank you—for the early mornings, the late nights, the tough love, and the fierce belief in our kids when they’re still figuring out who they are.
So, what do teachers actually want? We asked them. And spoiler alert: it’s not apples. Here’s what they said—and how you can make it meaningful from kindergarten to senior year.
“Tell me I made a difference. That’s all I really need.”
Mrs. L, a 4th-grade teacher with 23 years under her belt, said it best:
“I have a drawer full of notes from students. Some are scribbles, some are essays. They’re all gold. When I doubt myself—which happens—I read one.”
Whether it’s a sticky note with “you’re my favorite” or a full-on gratitude letter get a treat for yourself.”
“Pencils, markers, tissues … we run out of everything but heart.”
Teachers shouldn’t have to choose between buying their own pens or skipping classroom rewards—but many do.
“One parent gave me a ‘survival kit’ of things I always run out of. It felt like she knew my job inside and out.” — Ms. K, 2nd grade
Family Tip: Chat with your teacher (or their wishlist, if they’ve got one) and create a “Classroom Care Package.” It’s like back-to-school, but with better timing and double dose of appreciation.
“Even my seniors surprise me with creativity.”
We often think younger kids are the sentimental ones—but even high schoolers have a soft side. One student once gave their teacher a sketch of the classroom, filled with inside jokes.
“He handed it to me and said, ‘This is the only class where I didn’t feel like I had to pretend.’ I nearly lost it.” — Ms. T, 11th grade English
Family Tip: Don’t assume your teen’s too cool. A doodle, a quote, a comic strip—even a meme they made themselves—can be a touching tribute.
“When families work together, we feel like we’re part of something bigger.”
It’s easy to feel like your thank-you gesture won’t make a dent. But when families come together? Magic happens.
“One year, each student brought a flower. The class made a bouquet on my desk. It was breathtaking.” — Mrs. S, 3rd grade
Family Tip: Organize a group effort—decorate the classroom door, plan a themed snack day, or create a collaborative thank you video. No one has to go over the top, and everyone wins.
In Their Words: What Really Matters
We asked teachers, “What makes you feel appreciated?” Here’s what they told us:
- “When a parent says, ‘You made school feel safe again.’”
- “When a student who barely speaks tells you, ‘I look forward to your class.’”
- “When you get a note five years later that starts with, ‘You probably don’t remember me, but…’”
So yes, give a gift if you want. Write the card. Organize the celebration. But most of all? Just tell them they matter.
One Week. A Whole Lot of Heart.
This May, whether your child is in kindergarten or gearing up for graduation, let’s make sure the people who’ve stood by them feel seen.
Not just as educators. But as mentors. As motivators. As memory-makers.
Because behind every student’s big moment? There’s a teacher who helped make it possible.