As Teacher Appreciation Week kicks off from May 5 to May 9, 2025, various events and programs are set to honor educators across the United States and Canada. This year, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is reviving its annual Norwegian’s Giving Joy® program, which celebrates exceptional teachers by offering them a chance to win a free cruise. From May 5 through May 31, the public can nominate certified educators by sharing inspiring stories at www.nclgivingjoy.com. A panel of NCL leaders will review the submissions and select the winners based on their dedication and creativity in tackling challenges.
Twenty teachers will be awarded a three- or four-day cruise for two, with the top three winners receiving an exclusive invitation to the christening voyage of the new Norwegian Luna™ in spring 2026. David J. Herrera, President of NCL, expressed pride in the program, stating, “At NCL we are all about delivering exceptional experiences, including honoring communities who make a difference in the world, such as teachers.” Since its inception in 2019, Norwegian’s Giving Joy has received nearly 61,000 nominations, awarded over 270 teachers with dream vacations, and donated more than $515,000 to educators and their schools.
Meanwhile, Teacher Appreciation Week encourages parents and students to express gratitude towards their educators. This week, initiated by Eleanor Roosevelt in 1953 and later expanded into a full week in 1986 by the National Education Association (NEA), serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions teachers make to their communities. This year, Teacher Appreciation Day falls on May 6.
In addition to the NCL program, over 30 businesses are offering discounts and freebies for teachers. For instance, Ford is providing teachers who take a virtual test drive through May 7 with a $50 e-gift card to contribute to teacher requests on DonorsChoose. Restaurants like Buffalo Wild Wings are offering 20% off orders for teachers, while Chipotle is giving away $2 million in e-gift cards to educators.
However, amidst the celebrations, there is a pressing issue: teacher salaries, particularly in states like Florida, where the NEA’s latest report ranks the state 50th in the nation for average teacher pay. Despite a 3.3% increase in salaries for the 2023-24 school year, inflation has outpaced this growth, resulting in a nearly 13% drop in inflation-adjusted pay since the 2014-15 school year. Many educators are struggling to make ends meet, with 40% working multiple jobs to support themselves.
During Teacher Appreciation Week, it’s crucial to not only celebrate teachers but also advocate for fair salaries and improved working conditions. Andrew Spar, president of the Florida Education Association, emphasized the need for meaningful action from legislators, stating, “It’s time for lawmakers to support our public schools and let teachers teach.” This sentiment resonates with many educators who feel that their hard work is often overlooked.
Gift ideas for teachers during this week range from heartfelt notes and cards to practical items like classroom supplies and gift cards. A recent discussion among educators revealed that a simple, sincere message often means more than material gifts. Popular suggestions include flowers, baked goods, or personalized stationery, all of which can show appreciation without the need for extravagant spending.
As the week progresses, various companies are continuing to roll out deals for teachers. For example, Crayola is offering a 20% discount on products in the “Teacher Gift Ideas” category, while Michael’s is providing a 15% discount for educators who enroll in their rewards program. Additionally, restaurants like Insomnia Cookies and Whataburger are giving away free items to teachers who present valid IDs.
Ultimately, Teacher Appreciation Week serves as a reminder of the critical role educators play in shaping future generations. As John B. King, former U.S. Education Secretary, noted, “A great teacher is the only hope” for many students. This week, as communities come together to honor teachers, it’s essential to recognize their dedication and advocate for the support they need to thrive.
In a world where teacher shortages and frustrations are prevalent, let’s use this week as an opportunity to reflect on how we can improve conditions for educators. Whether through policy changes or simple acts of kindness, every effort counts towards ensuring that teachers feel valued and appreciated.
