Every May, Teacher Appreciation Week shines a spotlight on the extraordinary educators who shape classrooms, communities and futures. But genuine appreciation extends beyond thank you notes or themed celebrations. One of the most impactful ways to honor teachers is by investing in their growth, leadership and long-term success.
This guide explores why Teacher Appreciation Week matters, and how supporting teacher development can strengthen education year-round.
What Teacher Appreciation Week Represents
Teacher Appreciation Week is a national celebration honoring the essential role educators play in student learning, school culture and community well-being. According to the National Education Association (NEA), Teacher Appreciation Week takes place the first full week of May each year, and it serves a dual purpose. Not only is it a designated time to treat teachers and shower them with gratitude, but it’s also a moment to raise awareness about the vital work that teachers do within and outside of classrooms each and every day.
The History and Purpose of Teacher Appreciation Week
The first organized efforts to recognize teachers nationwide began in 1953, when First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt encouraged Congress to establish National Teacher Day to recognize the work of educators around the country. The National PTA built on National Teacher Day and created Teacher Appreciation Week in 1984. PTA and PTO organizations around the country work to host events and celebrations for the amazing educators who nurture students every day.
Why Meaningful Teacher Appreciation Goes Beyond a Single Week
For teachers, Teacher Appreciation Week is a brief moment in which they get to enjoy recognition for their hard work and effort with treats, celebrations and more. While surface-level recognition is valuable, it’s long-term support that makes the greatest difference in teacher satisfaction and retention.
Teachers Need Tools, Growth and Opportunity — Not Just Praise
The job of an educator has never been more challenging or complex, with teachers having to go beyond basic classroom instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners in their classrooms. There is a growing national discourse about the prevalence of teacher burnout in the profession, shortages in the teaching workforce and significant workload that teachers have to manage in today’s evolving landscape. According to research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, between 25% and 74% percent of teachers experience burnout. These startling numbers showcase that teachers need more than a candy bar and a thank you note during Teacher Appreciation Week. They need access to valuable resources and committed administrative support to thrive in their roles.
Investing in Teachers Is Investing in Schools
As community leaders, administrators and parents explore how to support teachers in their schools, it’s important to recognize the power of investing in teacher professional development. Educators who receive leadership training, professional development and advanced credentials positively influence student performance and school culture.
How Teacher Growth Leads to Student Growth
Teachers that receive tailored support through professional development are likely to be more impactful in the classroom. Targeted professional development can improve student learning outcomes, increase the quality of the educational experience for all students and lead to a more inclusive and responsive learning environment. Data published by Carnegie Corporation of New York reveals that teachers who participated in curriculum-based professional development were able to improve test scores by 9 percent in their classrooms.
Professional Development as a Form of Appreciation
Teacher professional development may not seem as flashy as a buffet lunch during the school day or flowers delivered to the classroom, but it’s one of the strongest ways to honor and support teachers. Administrators need to create impactful and relevant professional development focused on practical skills that can immediately be applied in the classroom setting.
Encouraging Teachers to Pursue Advanced Degrees
Beyond providing one-and-done workshops and seminars, administrators and community members should encourage continuing education for teachers. Master’s degree programs and graduate certifications can help teachers build specialty expertise, explore niche areas in education and embark on leadership pathways.
How Teachers Benefit from Ongoing Education and Leadership Pathways
Earning an online education degree provides teachers with an opportunity to advance their education while continuing their work in the classroom. Through advanced study, teachers can develop a better understanding of the leading instructional practices, equity awareness, inclusion strategies, curriculum design and technology integration.
Building Confidence and Classroom Innovation
Graduate education empowers teachers to adopt new methods and elevate learning experiences.
Engaging in Rowan’s online Master of Education in Teacher Leadership program has truly expanded my understanding of my educator role. I’ve discovered the rewarding responsibilities that come with being a teacher leader, and I’m excited to contribute positively to my school community!”
Tajauna S., Rowan University graduate student
The Role of Higher Education in Supporting Teachers
Universities play a major role in developing teacher leaders who can shape policy, coach peers and advocate for students. By offering graduate degree programs in specialty areas, universities can equip teachers with the advanced knowledge and niche skills needed to lead in an ever-changing, increasingly burdened educational landscape.
Why Programs Focused on Leadership Matter
Leadership-focused online education degree programs help teachers build a foundation for professional growth. For example, the online master’s in teacher leadership at Rowan University features a curriculum that emphasizes equity that supports the mastery of mentorship, curriculum development and data-driven instruction skills. Graduates of this program are prepared to advocate for diverse learners and drive improvement in their school communities. Leadership degrees equip educators with the skills and knowledge needed to step into positions like department chairs, instructional coaches and administrators.
Practical Ways Schools and Communities Can Support Educators Year-Round
By planning celebrations and showering teachers with love during Teacher Appreciation Week, you can make sure the educators that you love feel seen and recognized. But knowing how to support teachers throughout the entire year is even more important.
These are a few practical ideas you can use throughout the entire year:
- Provide teachers with regular opportunities to share insights and feedback.
- Actively listen to their needs and work to understand their perspectives.
- Explore ways to reduce the workload of teachers and protect their time.
- Ensure that teachers do not have to work beyond the scope of their job description.
- Reward teachers for their efforts and their performance.
Mentorship Programs, Flexible Professional Learning and Peer Recognition
School leaders play an active role in designing and implementing teacher professional development programs. Mentorship opportunities, professional learning communities and peer recognition programs can strengthen support mechanisms in school buildings while simultaneously boosting morale.
How Rowan University Supports Teachers’ Professional Growth
By offering online education degree programs in emerging specialty areas, Rowan University actively supports educators who want to grow their careers and become more impactful both inside and outside the classroom. Our advanced degrees and continuing education pathways feature skills-based, equity-focused curriculum programs that empower teachers to assume leadership roles.
My long-term professional goal is to continue growing as a teacher of students with multiple disabilities and eventually teach at the college level in the field of special education. This master’s program has already helped me deepen my understanding of special education and inclusive practices. I have been able to apply what I am learning directly to my classroom, which has strengthened my ability to meet my students’ unique needs.”
Isabella M., online student in the master’s in special education program
Flexible Online and Hybrid Options for Working Teachers
The flexible online programs at Rowan University allow educators to advance their skills and grow their careers without leaving the classroom. Designed to support teachers who are currently working full-time, our graduate degrees and certificate programs can be balanced alongside professional and personal responsibilities.
Learn More About Teacher Advancement Programs at Rowan University
Teacher Appreciation Week is a powerful reminder of educators’ essential contributions, but the most meaningful appreciation happens through ongoing support, growth opportunities and investment in teacher leadership. By expanding their skills, pursuing advanced degrees and engaging in lifelong learning, teachers strengthen not only their own careers but the future of education itself.
Ranked among the Top 100 National Public Research Universities and a Best Value institution by U.S. News & World Report 2025, Rowan University is proud to empower teachers through flexible, high-quality programs that help them continue making a lasting impact. We offer several graduate degree programs, including an online master’s in teacher leadership, an online master’s in school administration and an online master’s in special education and inclusive practices, allowing educators to invest in their professional development and take control of their career trajectory.
About Rowan
Since its founding in 1923, Rowan University has evolved from a teacher preparation college to a public research institution ranked among the top 100 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Rowan University offers bachelor’s through doctoral degrees and professional certificates in person and online to nearly 25,000 students through its main campus in Glassboro and its eight other locations in southern New Jersey. Rowan focuses on practical research at the intersection of health care, engineering, science and business, while ensuring excellence in undergraduate education. The University has earned national recognition for innovation; commitment to high-quality, affordable education; and the development of public-private partnerships. A Carnegie-classified R2 (high research activity) institution, Rowan is the fastest-growing public research university in the Northeast and among the nation’s top 10 fastest-growing, as reported by The Chronicle of Higher Education. In 2025, Rowan opened New Jersey’s only veterinary school and is one of only two universities in the nation to offer M.D., D.O., and D.V.M. medical degrees.