Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to all of the educators out there! As college success coaches, we know the vital role that teachers play in shaping the futures of our students. This week, we want to celebrate and acknowledge the incredible work that teachers do every day.

Teacher Appreciation Week is an annual US event celebrated in the first full week of May. It's a time to honor teachers who have made a significant impact in our lives. The week's origins date back to 1953, when Eleanor Roosevelt convinced the 81st Congress to establish National Teacher Day. National Teacher Day became an NEA-sponsored event in 1980 and was soon followed by Teacher Appreciation Week in 1984. This weeklong event has continued to evolve, with schools, communities, and corporations showing their appreciation for teachers with various events and activities.

In 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Teacher Appreciation Week took on a new level of significance as teachers had to quickly adapt to remote and hybrid learning environments. Many schools and communities found creative ways to show their appreciation for teachers, including virtual celebrations, car parades, and socially distanced events.

Many of the Life Tutors here at My Life Tutors are former (and even current) educators in academia, so we understand the teacher’s journey and what it take to create an engaging curriculum that brings the best out of our students and clients.

Here are some ideas for how you can show your appreciation for the teachers in your life this week:

• Write a Thank You Note: 

Teachers and coaches are the unsung heroes of our lives. They dedicate countless hours to molding and shaping young minds, all while juggling their own lives outside of the classroom. That's why taking the time to write a simple thank you note can mean the world to them. As someone who has experienced the impact of a great teacher, I know firsthand the power of feeling supported and appreciated. So take a few minutes out of your busy day to let a teacher or coach know just how much they mean to you. Trust me, it will be a small gesture that leaves a lasting impact on both of your lives.

• Share a Social Media Shoutout: 

Social media has become a platform for expressing our thoughts, emotions and practically everything in between. So, why not use it to appreciate our favorite teachers and coaches? They may not always get the appreciation they deserve for the hard work they put in, but a social media post or reel with the hashtag #ThankATeacher could go a long way in showing our support and encouragement. Let's spread the word and show our gratitude for those who have made a positive impact in our lives. So, take a moment to share your appreciation and let the world know about the wonderful teachers and coaches who have shaped you into the person you are today. #ThankATeacher

• Send a Gift: 

Sending a gift is a great way to show your appreciation for someone special, and it doesn't have to break the bank. Whether it's a small token of appreciation or a more significant gesture like an electronic gift card to their favorite local restaurant or store, the sentiment behind it will be appreciated. If you're feeling extra thoughtful, a handwritten sentiment can add a personal touch to the gift. And don't forget about alumni or friends who are still loyal to their alma maters. A gift featuring their school spirit is sure to bring a smile to their face and remind them of their glory days. So go ahead and spread some joy with a thoughtful gift!

• Participate in Teacher Appreciation Week Events: 

If you're looking to participate in Teacher Appreciation Week and show your support for the amazing teachers and coaches in your life, there are plenty of ways to get involved! Many schools and organizations host events throughout the week to honor teachers. Also, look to Google and search for events in your area, or check out websites like Eventbrite or Facebook to find out about local gatherings planned to honor teachers. Whether it's a coffee and muffins morning at your child's school, a free fitness class hosted by a local gym, or a community-wide celebration with food and drinks, there are tons of ways to show your love and appreciation for the hardworking educators in your community. So mark your calendar, bring some flowers or a small thoughtful gift, and get ready to spread some serious teacher appreciation throughout your community!

• Volunteer in the Classroom: 

Are you looking for a way to show your appreciation for all the hard-working teachers out there? One way you can help is by volunteering in the classroom or offering to assist with a project. Teachers and coaches put in countless hours and effort to create the best learning environment possible for their students, and a coach's workload is often stacked to the ceiling. By donating your time and energy, you can acknowledge their hard work and show how much you value their efforts. So gather your positive spirit, and offer your help and time. Your contribution will go a long way in making a difference!

As we extend our gratitude for all that our teachers have done and endured, let us remember the power of a strong support network like ours. We can be the foundation of support from which students reach new heights and discover their full potential. Let’s keep striving towards this goal every day; it is through working together that we can bring success to our students, no matter how challenging the times become. From one college success coach to another and speaking on behalf of many, thank you--thank you teachers (and coaches)!