by Kerry Knapp, National School Recruiter at Epic Special Education Staffing
Each year, we celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week during the first full week of May. Observed from May 8-12 for 2023, this week is an opportunity to show our gratitude for the incredible work of special education teachers and educators overall. At Epic Special Education Staffing, we are thrilled to honor your outstanding contributions to the lives of your students and community.
Reflecting on Your Impact
National Teacher Appreciation Week is a time to reflect on your profound impact and influence on your students’ lives. As special education teachers, you go above and beyond in providing tailored support to students with diverse needs. Your unwavering commitment to their success is inspiring, and we want to acknowledge the remarkable difference you make in their lives. With that in mind, we encourage you to enjoy the many forms of appreciation you deserve during this special week.
Ways to Celebrate
Events & Gifts
During National Teacher Appreciation Week, various parent-teacher organizations and associations often host events and give gifts to celebrate and thank teachers. If your school does not host such events, organizations such as PTO and National PTA are good resources for ideas on how to get involved and celebrate your accomplishments as a special education teacher. These websites also provide inspiring videos and content for you to enjoy, along with links to various companies offering discounts and free promotions during this week. Remind your parents and students that the impact of a thoughtful handwritten note also goes a long way. This can be a simple yet powerful way for others to show gratitude without spending money. Whether attending a formal event hosted by a parent organization at your school or receiving a simple, thoughtfully handwritten note, there are many ways to feel appreciated and celebrated during this special week.
Social Media
Social Media is another great way to receive and give appreciation this week. Many parents and students actively use the hashtag #ThankATeacher nationwide to share their gratitude for your noble profession. Connect to a broader audience of your peers and supporters by using and encouraging this tag in your social media posts, provided by the National Parent Teachers Association. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled on your personal social media feeds. You just might spot current and former students posting about how you guided them through their educational journey!
Special Education Staffing
Education is a rewarding career, and according to the NPTA, “Teaching is work of heart,” where you make a difference in the lives of children every day.
As a staffing firm that focuses on supporting special education services in school districts, Epic Special Education recognizes the critical role that teachers and educators play in students’ lives, especially those with disabilities. We are committed to supporting special education teachers by connecting them with rewarding job opportunities nationwide.
If you want to learn more about teaching specialties or explore our current placement opportunities, please visit our website!
Retailer Freebies and Special Offers for Educators
Several retailers and eateries offer exclusive discounts and awesome perks during National Teacher Appreciation Week to acknowledge teachers’ hard work and devotion. RetailMeNot lists nearly 50 retailers offering specials for teachers, including apparel, food, classroom supplies, tech, and more. We’ve hand-selected some of our favorite deals from participating stores for teachers who can provide valid identification:
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- TOMS – 10% off
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- Headspace – FREE subscription
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- Apple – up to $200 off on Apple Education Store computers and accessories
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- Michaels – 15% off
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- Lovesac – 25% off
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- Vineyard Vines – 15% off
Whether you are a teacher or a student, take some time to show appreciation for the educators in your life this National Teacher Appreciation Week.
About the Author:
Kerry Knapp is a National School Recruiter for ESES with over 20 years of experience working in education and recruiting. Kerry’s approach is highly consultative, focusing on a deep understanding of professional and personal goals to target the best placement options. She encourages her therapists and teachers to “dream big” and realize that anything is possible when looking for a new state, city, or school. In her spare time, Kerry “dreams big” herself by spending time planning travel with her husband and two daughters and is a lover of anything French. Her attitude can be summed up in the words of Walt Disney: “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing things because we’re curious, and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”
