National Teacher Day is a special day dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the contributions of teachers to society. It celebrates their hard work, dedication, and the vital role they play in shaping the future by imparting knowledge, values, and inspiration to students.

Quick Facts

• When is it?: May 6, 2025 (First Tuesday of the first full week of May)
• Tagged as: Teacher Appreciation, Education, Gratitude
• What’s the hashtag?: #NationalTeachersDay
• When was it founded?: 1953
• Who founded it?: Eleanor Roosevelt, inspired by teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge

History of National Teacher Day

The idea for National Teacher Day began in 1944 when discussions about honoring teachers gained momentum. Eleanor Roosevelt championed the cause in 1953, persuading Congress to proclaim a day for teachers. Initially observed on March 7, 1980, it was later moved to May in 1985 by the National Education Association (NEA) and the National PTA to align with Teacher Appreciation Week.

Timeline

• 1944: Discussions about honoring teachers begin.
• 1953: Eleanor Roosevelt convinces Congress to establish Teachers’ Day.
• 1980: March 7 is declared National Teacher Day.
• 1985: The celebration is moved to May during Teacher Appreciation Week.
• Present Day: Teachers are celebrated globally with gifts, gratitude, and social media campaigns.

National Teacher Day Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	May 6	Tuesday
2026	May 5	Tuesday
2027	May 4	Tuesday
2028	May 2	Tuesday
2029	May 1	Tuesday
2030	May 7	Tuesday

Observed on National Teacher Day

National Teacher Day is an opportunity for communities to express their gratitude to educators.

1. Recognizing Contributions
   Teachers are celebrated for their role in shaping young minds and inspiring future generations. This day highlights their efforts in nurturing students academically and personally.
2. Community Engagement
   Students, parents, and communities come together to show appreciation through cards, gifts, or special events. Schools often organize celebrations or professional development workshops for teachers.
3. Global Perspective
   While this day is primarily observed in the United States, many countries celebrate similar events to honor educators’ contributions worldwide.

Fun Facts About National Teacher Day

• Mattye Whyte Woodridge wrote to Eleanor Roosevelt advocating for a day dedicated to teachers.
• Teachers spend an average of 52 hours per week on teaching-related activities.
• Over 92% of teachers use their own money for classroom supplies.
• The modal retirement age for teachers is 59 years old.
• The percentage of male teachers entering the profession has increased by 28% in recent years.

Quiz

1. Who inspired Eleanor Roosevelt to establish National Teacher Day?
2. When is National Teacher Day celebrated in the U.S.?
3. What year was Teachers’ Day moved to May?
4. Which organization partnered with Eleanor Roosevelt to lobby Congress?
5. What percentage of teachers leave the profession within five years?

(Answers: 1. Mattye Whyte Woodridge; 2. First Tuesday of May; 3. 1985; 4. NEA; 5. Over 45%)

FAQs

• What is National Teacher Day?
  National Teacher Day honors educators and recognizes their contributions to society.
• Why was it moved from March to May?
  The NEA and PTA aligned it with Teacher Appreciation Week for broader celebrations.
• How can I celebrate my teacher on this day?
  You can send a thank-you card, gift, or post a message on social media using #NationalTeachersDay.
• What is the history behind this day?
  Eleanor Roosevelt advocated for it in Congress in 1953 after being inspired by a teacher’s letter.
• Is this day celebrated globally?
  Yes, many countries have similar days dedicated to honoring teachers.

Importance of National Teacher Day

1. Acknowledging Dedication
   Teachers work tirelessly to educate and inspire students despite challenges like long hours and limited resources. This day highlights their invaluable contributions.
2. Boosting Morale
   Recognition fosters pride among educators and motivates them to continue making a difference in students’ lives.
3. Promoting Education’s Value
   By celebrating teachers, society emphasizes the importance of education as a cornerstone for personal and community growth.

Related

• World Teachers’ Day (October 5)
• International Education Week
• Global Education Summit