Teacher Appreciation Day is a time to recognize the incredible educators who show up every day with passion, patience, and a pile of marking in their tote bags. But here’s the thing—it doesn’t have to be about elaborate gifts or big gestures. Sometimes the best appreciation comes from the teacher down the hall, next door, or across the pod. So, this Teacher Appreciation Day, let’s make it personal. Whether you’re looking to spread a little joy or just say “I see you,” here are ten low-effort, heartfelt ways to celebrate the teachers who make your days brighter.
10 Thoughtful Ways to Appreciate Your Fellow Teachers
Teacher Appreciation Day isn’t just about students giving thank-you notes—it’s also a great chance for teachers to lift each other up. Whether it’s the teacher across the hall who always has a backup glue stick, or your planning partner who keeps you sane during report card season, a little gesture goes a long way. These 10 ideas are simple, thoughtful ways to show your fellow educators just how much they’re appreciated—without adding to your already full plate.
1. Bring Them a Coffee (or Tea!) Surprise
Nothing says “I appreciate you” like their favourite morning drink showing up just when they need it. Text ahead and ask, “Coffee run—what’s your order?” or drop it off with a note that says, “Fuel for a teacher who deserves a gold star.” It’s small, but it goes a long way.
2. Buy Them a Lesson Plan from Madly Learning
Give them the gift of one less thing to plan. Browse the Madly Learning store and grab a resource they’ve mentioned or one you love. It could be a set of spelling lessons, a math task, or a science experiment you’ve both wanted to try. It’s the ultimate “I’ve got your planning covered” gift.
3. Plan a Joint Two-Class Lesson
Offer to co-teach a fun lesson with your neighbouring teacher—especially one that allows them to take a bit of a breather. Suggest a science experiment, art activity, or drama game where you take the lead and they can support. It gives you both a new energy boost and keeps students engaged.
4. Make a DIY “Teacher Fuel” Snack Bag
Fill a small baggie with little treats—think granola bar, chocolate square, gum, or a tea bag—and add a fun note like “Emergency Teacher Fuel Kit” or “Break Glass in Case of Staff Meeting.” It’s inexpensive and thoughtful.
5. Organize a Quick “Swap & Prep” Session
Coordinate a time after school where a few teachers bring one great, print-ready lesson to share. Everyone leaves with new material they didn’t have to prep. Bonus idea: bring or suggest a ready-made resource like the Coding Bootcamp from Madly Learning to get the swap started.
6. Offer to Cover a Yard Duty or Recess Break
Even a 15-minute break can make a huge difference. If it works with your schedule or your school’s policy, offer to trade a duty or cover for a colleague so they can have an extra moment of peace (or a bathroom break they don’t have to rush).
7. Create a “Classroom Happy Hour” Kit
No, not that kind of happy hour. Fill a small box or bag with little comforts: herbal tea, a mini lotion, a pack of sticky notes, and maybe a funny sticker. Label it with “Survive today, thrive tomorrow.”
8. Invite Them for a Quick After-School Walk-and-Talk
Sometimes the best appreciation is just checking in. Suggest a casual stroll around the school or to a local coffee shop. It’s a chance to chat, vent, and connect—especially with someone who’s had your back all year.
9. Create a Meme or Quote Just for Them
Know their sense of humour? Make a custom meme or print a funny quote that speaks to something you’ve shared (like that one time the photocopier jammed during report cards). Stick it on their door or leave it in their mailbox.
10. Gift a Class Set of Something Useful
Pencils, glue sticks, whiteboard markers—whatever your colleague is always running low on. Wrap them with a tag that says, “From one teacher to another, I’ve got your back.” It’s practical, appreciated, and sure to be used.
Celebrating Teacher Appreciation Day doesn’t need to be complicated. These ideas are about showing your colleagues you care—through kindness, laughter, and maybe even a shared lesson plan or two.
Bonus Resource: Watch This for Burnout Support
While you’re appreciating others on Teacher Appreciation Day, don’t forget to take care of yourself, too. Check out our podcast episode: Strategies to Avoid Teacher Burnout.
In this episode, Patti shares real, practical tips to help you avoid burnout and stay grounded during the busiest seasons of the school year.
Teacher Appreciation Day—You Deserve It
These ideas are about showing your colleagues you care—through kindness, laughter, and maybe even a shared lesson plan or two.
Looking for more ways to support the teachers around you (or yourself) during this Teacher Appreciation Day? Check out our time-saving, teacher-approved lesson plans and membership options at Madly Learning.
