Celebrating Our Local Heroes: A Guide to Teacher Appreciation Week 2025

At Gretchen Rehm Financial, we have the privilege of working closely with many dedicated educators throughout Southern Minnesota. As Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5-9, 2025) approaches, we’re taking a moment to highlight the undeniable impact teachers make in our communities and share meaningful ways to show sincere gratitude. 

Let’s explore why teacher appreciation matters and offer practical ways for both parents and community members to show their support.

Why Teacher Appreciation Matters

Teachers are more than just educators – they’re mentors, champions, and role models to our children. They arrive early to prepare lessons, stay late to grade papers, and spend every moment of the school day caring for students. 

Did you know that over 90% of teachers spend their own money on classroom supplies? Teachers truly go above and beyond to create successful learning environments!

Teachers also face many challenges, from adapting to new technologies to supporting students’ emotional well-being. They manage diverse learning needs, maintain safe spaces for growth, and juggle administrative and curriculum demands on top of their classroom duties. 

Despite all of these competing priorities, teachers remain dedicated to their calling, showing up each and every day with enthusiasm and compassion. That’s why when we show appreciation for teachers, we are acknowledging how they go above and beyond for our kids. 

Meaningful Ways Parents Can Show Teacher Appreciation

For parents with children in school, showing appreciation can be both personal and impactful. Here are a few ideas you can consider, since we have a few weeks until Teacher Appreciation Week!

Consider organizing a class-wide effort to create a memory book where each student contributes a favorite moment or lesson learned. You could also coordinate with other parents to provide a week of morning coffee or lunch deliveries during the appreciation week. 

Another idea is to have your child write a specific, detailed letter about how their teacher has helped them grow this school year.

If you have the funds, you can create a classroom supply basket filled with both practical items and small luxuries for the teacher, such as a gift card and some of their favorite coffee. But remember, the most meaningful gestures do not have to cost a lot of money. They often come from observing what would truly make the teacher’s day easier – whether it’s volunteering for classroom activities, offering to laminate materials, or simply sending a heartfelt email acknowledging their impact on your child’s life.

How Members of the Community Can Show Teacher Appreciation

Even if you don’t have school-age children, you can still make a difference in teachers’ lives! We all have a vested stake in the success of local schools. Local businesses, families, and nonprofits can all rally together to show teachers how much they appreciate the work they’re doing. 

Consider sponsoring a local classroom, providing supplies, or funding for special projects. You could also partner with local businesses to offer teacher discounts or special appreciation events during the week. 

As an individual, you can write letters to your school board or local newspaper highlighting the positive impact of teachers in our community. If you have the means, consider donating to teacher grant programs or contributing to classroom wish lists.

You can also volunteer your professional skills to enrich classroom experiences, such as technology support, garden maintenance, or career day presentations. Remember, strong communities are built on strong schools, and supporting our teachers benefits everyone. 

Teacher Appreciation is a Year-Long Project

Teacher Appreciation Week may be in May, but the impact of educators deserves year-round recognition. At Gretchen Rehm Financial, we’re proud to serve our local teaching community throughout the year, getting into schools to talk to educators and witness their dedication firsthand. 

Whether you’re a school parent, community member, or simply someone who values education, there are countless ways to show teachers they matter. Let’s work together to make this Teacher Appreciation Week especially meaningful for the educators who enrich our Southern Minnesota communities!