When Is Teacher Appreciation Week in 2026?

Teacher Appreciation Week in the United States will take place Monday, May 4 through Friday, May 8, 2026, with National Teacher Day recognized on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

This week is dedicated to celebrating the educators who create supportive, inspiring, and engaging learning environments every day—including substitute teachers who step in to keep classrooms running smoothly.

Teacher Appreciation Week 2026

Teacher Appreciation Week is a nationwide celebration that honors every educator contributing to student success. While much of the focus falls on classroom teachers, substitutes also play a vital role during this week. Schools depend on substitutes to maintain learning continuity, support classroom routines, and provide stability when the regular teacher is absent.

This week offers a chance to highlight the dedication, flexibility, and professionalism substitutes bring to school communities.

Why Teacher Appreciation Week Matters to Substitute Teachers

Substitutes are uniquely positioned in the education ecosystem. They step into unfamiliar classrooms, adapt quickly to new routines, and ensure students continue learning—even when plans change.

During Teacher Appreciation Week, substitutes deserve recognition for:

• Adaptability: Managing different grade levels, subjects, and classrooms—sometimes on short notice.

• Professionalism: Providing structure and support while following lesson plans they did not write.

• Reliability: Being the bridge that keeps learning uninterrupted when a teacher is away.

• Impact: Creating positive moments for students in situations that could otherwise be disruptive.

Substitute teaching isn’t just filling in—it’s stepping up.

How Schools Can Celebrate Substitute Teachers During the Wee

Schools and districts can make a meaningful difference with small gestures that show appreciation for substitutes:

1. Personalized thank-you notes

Handwritten messages from administrators or teachers go a long way in making substitutes feel seen and valued.

2. Shoutouts in school communications

Announcements in newsletters, morning broadcasts, or social media can give substitutes public recognition.

3. Priority scheduling or early-access assignments

Offering high-performing substitutes first choice of upcoming jobs shows trust and appreciation.

4. Providing a “Sub Welcome Kit”

Simple items like pens, sticky notes, room maps, and WiFi info make their day smoother.

5. Highlighting positive stories

Share examples of substitutes who helped students, maintained strong classroom culture, or stepped in during high-need moments.

How Substitute Teachers Can Celebrate Themselves

Teacher Appreciation Week is also a great time for substitutes to reflect on their work:

• Update teaching profiles or resumes

• Review which classrooms or grade levels they enjoy most

• Identify new skills they want to build

• Acknowledge the impact they’ve made on hundreds of students throughout the year

Substitutes often move quietly behind the scenes. This week is a reminder that their work matters deeply.

Looking Ahead

Teacher Appreciation Week 2026 is a moment to celebrate the educators who show up every day—and those who step in when they’re needed most. Substitutes keep learning on track, support school communities, and bring stability to classrooms everywhere.

Whether you’re a substitute teacher, a school leader, or a student, this week is a chance to say: Thank you for making education possible.