Here's how to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week when they need it more than ever

The past year has changed the lives of nearly everyone, but it's been a roller coaster for teachers. Many classes quickly transitioned to virtual at the beginning of the pandemic, with some returning to in-person teaching while others are still operating online.

From bad internet connections to having to teach students behind plexiglass, teachers have had to find ways to keep students engaged and interested in school more so than ever. Now is the perfect time to repay them for all the effort they've put in as it's Teacher Appreciation Week.

Here's all you need to know about the week honoring those in education:

What is Teacher Appreciation Week?

The National Education Association says National Teacher Day is "a day for honoring teachers and recognizing the lasting contributions they make to our lives.”

National Teacher Day originated as an idea by former first lady Eleanor Roosevelt in 1953 when she pleaded to Congress that there needed to be a day when teachers were recognized, according to School Specialty.

Despite receiving congressional support, the first National Teacher Day did not occur until March 7, 1980. It was four years later when the National Education Association decided to honor teachers with one week instead of one day.

When is Teacher Appreciation Week and National Teacher Day?

Since 1984, The weeklong acknowledgment occurs on the first full week of May every year, with National Teacher Day on the Tuesday of that week. The National Parent Teacher Association recognizes the week from May 3-7 this year, but President Joe Biden announced on April 30 that National Teacher Appreciation Week would be from May 2-8, with National Teacher Appreciation Day on May 4.

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How can I celebrate and honor teachers?

While the day is aimed at celebrating current teachers, that doesn't exclude former ones. Teachers of past and present can be acknowledged for how they helped shape the futures of successful lives and careers.

"I call upon all Americans to recognize the hard work and dedication of our nation’s teachers and to observe this day and this week by supporting teachers through appropriate activities, events and programs," Biden said in his proclamation.

There are many ways someone can show their appreciation to teachers. Gestures can be as small as writing them a letter or appreciation posts on social media, volunteering at school, or filling up school supplies. People can also gift teachers personal items.

Can teachers receive any special discounts from businesses?

The answer is yes. If someone wants to give a teacher a gift card or let them know of perks they can get this week, businesses like Office Depot and Costco are offering discounts to educators. Teachers can also enjoy some discounted food from places like Buffalo Wild Wings and Sonic Drive-in on Tuesday. A full list of deals teachers can get in on can be found here. 

Follow Jordan Mendoza on Twitter: @jord_mendoza.