From May 5 to May 9, 2025, National Teacher Appreciation Week shines a spotlight on educators with a variety of exclusive deals and discounts at numerous restaurants and retailers.

Featured Promotions for Educators

Among the standout offers is Chipotle’s initiative to distribute free burrito e-cards. The fast-food chain is recognizing up to 200,000 teachers, contributing over $2 million in free meals.

“Teachers and healthcare professionals are such important members of the communities we serve,” said Chris Brandt, Chief Brand Officer of Chipotle. “To express our gratitude, we’re scaling up our recognition efforts and launching our largest free burrito giveback program in history.”

To take part in the Chipotle offer, teachers must sign up on the restaurant’s website, with a limit of 100,000 e-cards available.

Overview of Other Freebies and Discounts

• Whataburger: Enjoy a free breakfast entrée from 5 to 9 a.m., Monday through Friday.
• Shake Shack: Receive a complimentary milkshake with a valid teacher ID.
• Krispy Kreme: Teachers can grab a free Original Glazed doughnut on May 6.
• Applebee’s: Avail a free appetizer with the purchase of an entrée upon showing school ID.
• Sonic Drive-In: From May 5 to May 9, various deals for Teachers’ Circle members are available, including free snacks with a purchase.
• Buffalo Wild Wings: Get a 20% discount on all orders from May 5 to 11.

Special Offers By Select Outlets

Many other well-known brands have exciting deals for teachers during this week:

• McDonald’s: A selection of free beverages on National Teacher Appreciation Day (May 6) for educators with valid ID.
• Atomic Wings: Free boneless wings with fries on May 6.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: An opportunity for 20 educators to win a free cruise. Nominations can be submitted until May 31, 2025.
• Insomnia Cookies: Free classic cookie upon purchase with proof of employment.
• J. Crew: 20% off all purchases for teachers.

Importance of Teacher Appreciation

According to the Pew Research Center, there are approximately 3.8 million public school teachers in the United States, with 23% being men. Teacher Appreciation Week serves as a valuable reminder of the significant contributions educators make to society.