Tennessee Celebrates Teacher Appreciation Month in May

TDOE Shares Special Offers Available to Educators

Nashville, TN—Throughout the month of May, the Tennessee Department of Education invites all Tennesseans to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Month, Week, and Day, proclaimed by Governor Bill Lee. The department will highlight the impactful work teachers do every day across the state to ensure students have access to a high-quality education and are set up for success. 

This year, to show appreciation for these incredible educators, the department shares a Teacher Appreciation Resource List of special offers, discounts, and promotions available to educators from various stores, restaurants, and other businesses across the state.

“Teachers are the guiding lights in their students' lives, shaping who they become and inspiring them to reach their full potential both inside and outside the classroom," said Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education. "I deeply appreciate every Tennessee educator’s daily dedication and heartfelt commitment to nurturing learning and fostering growth."  

The department will promote Teacher Appreciation Month on our social media channels, highlighting Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4-8) and Teacher Appreciation Day (May 5). Tennesseans are encouraged to join the conversation and share on social media why they love their current or previous teacher(s) using #ThankATeacherTN. Furthermore, current Tennessee teachers are encouraged to share why they love teaching using #WhyTeachTN.  

Governor Bill Lee and the Tennessee General Assembly continue their strong support for teachers by allocating over $480 million for consistent annual pay raises for Tennessee’s dedicated educators. This funding highlights the state’s dedication to increasing the minimum starting teacher salary to $50,000 by 2027, positioning Tennessee as a top state for teacher pay nationwide.   

For Tennessee Department of Education media inquiries, contact Edu.MediaInquiries@tn.gov.

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