Honoring Educators: The History and Significance of National Teacher Appreciation Week NATIONAL TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK APPRECIATE OUR EDUCATORS Every May, schools across the nation celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week—a time to honor the dedication and impact of educators. But how did this tradition begin, and why is it more relevant than ever? Roots in Advocacy The story starts in 1944, when Arkansas teacher Mattie Whyte Woodridge began advocating for a national day to recognize educators. She wrote to First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, who shared her passion. In 1953, Roosevelt persuaded Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day, though it wasn’t yet an annual event.
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