National Teacher Appreciation Week 2026 deals and discounts

FILE - Preschool girl learning with her teacher in a daycare environment. Getty Images

For decades, Teacher Appreciation Week has given students, families, and businesses a moment to honor the people who shape our communities. 

Retailers and restaurants across the country are offering discounts, freebies, and special promotions for educators. 

National Teacher Appreciation Week deals and discounts

Aldi 

Aldi has launched the ALDI Honor Roll, a nationwide giveaway to gift thousands of dollars to deserving teachers. (Aldi)

To celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week, Aldi has launched the ALDI Honor Roll, a nationwide giveaway to gift thousands of dollars to deserving teachers. This week, shoppers can visit ALDIHonorRoll.com to nominate a teacher (or even themselves if they’re a teacher!) for a chance to win $2,026 in ALDI gift cards, along with classroom-ready supplies, snacks and ALDI Finds. 

Dr. Scholl's Shoes

To celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week, Dr. Scholl’s Shoes is offering teachers 20% off site wide from May 4–12.

Einstein Bros. Bagels

On Wednesday, May 6,  visit any participating Einstein Bros. Bagels location, show a valid work ID and receive one free Bagel & Shmear of their choice with the purchase of any item. (Einstein Bros. Bagels)

On Wednesday, May 6, nurses can visit any participating Einstein Bros. Bagels location, show a valid work ID and receive one free Bagel & Shmear of their choice with the purchase of any item. The offer is only available for in-bakery orders placed on May 6. 

Grimaldi's Pizzeria 

From Monday, May 4 through Friday, May 8, Grimaldi’s is offering 15% off all orders for teachers nationwide. Simply present a valid school or workplace I.D. to enjoy the discount at any location – a delicious way to show our appreciation! This offer is available at all participating Grimaldi’s Pizzeria locations and cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions. 

Insomnia Cookies

Insomnia Cookies is bringing warmth to teachers. Starting May 5 through May 12, Insomnia Rewards Members can get a buy 1 cookie and get 1 free cookie deal with valid ID in-store only. Additionally, Insomnia Rewards Members can show their appreciation with 20% off online orders of 50+ cookie packs with code: EARNEDIT26.

Kura Sushi

From May 4-10, 2026 at Kura Sushi, teachers enjoy 20% off, as a thank you for all the care and dedication they show every day. Must present valid ID, badge or be in uniform to qualify. Dine-in only. Excludes delivery and third-party orders.

McAlister’s Deli

Nurses can get a free sweet or unsweet tea at participating locations nationwide from May 4-8. Must show educator ID at checkout. 
More information here

Melissa & Doug

Toy brand Melissa & Doug is introducing a year-round 15% discount for educators, along with a limited-time 25% offer in celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week: May 4 – May 8.

Museum of Illusions

Museum of Illusions Atlanta is doing something special to give thanks to any educator that visits May 4–8.  In addition to free entry with a school ID, teachers will receive a goodie bag that includes a STEM toy or puzzle (upon arrival or departure).
The museum is a proud partner with STEM.org Educational Research (SET) and gives many nods to education within the community, including school field trips and free admission to teachers year-round.  With over 80 interactive exhibits to choose from, families (and educators alike) can escape the heat or take a break from reality – challenging their perceptions with mind-boggling fun. Household favorites include the Tilted Room, Vortex Tunnel and Walk-In Kaleidoscope. Teachers can reserve their visit at moiatlanta.com.

Noodles & Company

Now through May 8, you can get 10% off your catering order of $150 or more using the promo code APPRECIATION2026 at checkout. 

PLAY-DOH Brand and Amazon Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Month

Three winning teachers will receive an ultimate prize pack of school year essentials, including PLAY-DOH sets, and have their stories showcased nationwide this August. (Hasbro)

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Month, Hasbro’s PLAY-DOH brand and Amazon are teaming up to celebrate educators through the National Teacher Recognition Campaign: Parents, students and administrators can nominate an inspiring educator for a chance to be featured on Amazon Lockers across the country. Three winning teachers will receive an ultimate prize pack of school year essentials, including PLAY-DOH sets, and have their stories showcased nationwide this August.  Click here to make a nomination.

Potbelly

In celebration of Teacher Appreciation, Potbelly is offering teachers and nurses a complimentary cookie or regular-sized fountain drink with the purchase of any entrée from Monday, May 4, through Tuesday, May 12. Eligible entrées include any original or big-sized sandwich, wrap, whole salad or bowl of soup. The offer is available in-shop only, with guests simply showing a valid school or healthcare employee ID at checkout to redeem.

Red Robin

Now through May 7, Red Robin guests can show their appreciation for their teacher by purchasing a $50 gift card for teachers and receive a $10 gift card.   

At Salata, no two orders are the same. Guests can choose from five bases, more than 50 toppings and house-made dressings prepared daily. (Salata)

Salata

Salata is celebrating teachers with 15% off from May 4–12 when presenting a valid ID, as a token of appreciation for their continued impact in local communities.

Target

During Teacher Appreciation Week, verified teachers who are members of Target's free-to-join Target Circle loyalty program can receive 10% off one store wide purchase.

Also, available throughout the year, is a discounted rate for an annual Target Circle 360 membership for verified teachers.

Get more information here

TPT

TPT, formerly Teachers Pay Teachers, is running a sitewide sale from May 5–6, with up to 25% off millions of educator-created resources. Use code THANKYOU26 at checkout.

Whataburger

On Thursday, May 7, teachers and school staff can get a free breakfast menu item from 5-9 a.m. local time. Must show school ID. 

Get more information here

The Source: The information in this story was provided by retailers.  This story was reported from Orlando.

ConsumerU.S.EducationMoney