Students at Kenwood highly value their teachers, especially as Teacher Appreciation week approaches. With the week running from May 6th to May 10th, and May 7th designated as Teacher Appreciation Day, students are reflecting on their appreciation for their teachers and brainstorming ways to celebrate them.
Many students have listed reasons they value their favorite teachers. They’re also planning on doing something special for their teachers. Whether it’s through talking to their teachers, going on field trips, to teachers making class time entertaining with games and projects, students value their teachers for all that they do. They plan to express their gratitude by writing notes, baking treats, or creating artwork.
Brianna holds six particular teachers in high regard: Mr. Ladd, Mrs. Huffman, Mrs. Tomasura, Mr. Nash, Mr. McWhorter, and Mrs. Williams. She emphasizes their attentiveness, saying, “They listen to my rants and they pay attention to what I say, even if it’s not important.” Brianna feels valued by these teachers. She enjoys being able to hang out in their classrooms and discuss matters like turning in notes, although she mentions that negotiation doesn’t always succeed.
Max commends his favorite teacher, Mr. Roeder, for his encouragement and mentorship, expressing, “I feel like he pushes me and helps me become a better designer. He encourages me to use the laser printer myself.” Max is confident that his teacher believes in his ability to do an excellent job with any task that is thrown his way.
Similarly, Sulema expresses her gratitude towards Mrs. Chappell for creating a supportive and comfortable environment in her choir class. “I like it when she lets us chill and sing for fun after our concerts. It’s fun singing whatever I want, and I feel comfortable singing in class because of the environment she created. She’s very mom.” Sulema also notes Mrs. Chappell’s zero-tolerance policy towards making fun of other students, especially in her class. This encourages her students to be open and honest. Sulema intends to show her appreciation through a heartfelt note during Teacher Appreciation Week.
Noelia describes Mrs. Ferrigno as a fun teacher to have, remarking, “She’s always making entertaining lessons. She’s a great teacher, and we’re always learning new dances. She’s always there to talk, even if it’s not related to dance.” Noelia appreciates Mrs. Ferrigno for the effort she puts into teaching and remembers the occasion when she shared homemade pretzels with her.
During Teacher Appreciation Week, teachers have more than just personal gestures from students to look forward to. Various businesses offer special deals exclusively for educators. For instance, at the Apple Education Store, teachers can enjoy discounts up to $200 on computers and accessories. Bonobos provides a 20% discount on pants, shirts, and suits for men, requiring verification of teacher status. Educators can also receive $150 discount on their next vacation signing up at Cheap Caribbean Vacations. Costco offers a $20 gift card to teachers who sign up online for a new Costco membership.
Additionally, Great Wolf Lodge provides up to 40% off on reservations using the code TEACHER at checkout, valid for bookings through August 21st if reserved between May 8th and 14th. Hanes offers a 10% discount on clothing for teachers, including retirees. Moreover, Home Chef extends a 50% discount on the first box for teachers and 10% off every box that follows. Science teachers have the opportunity to win $1,000 by participating in the Ward’s Science Giveaway, with the winning teacher receiving a shopping spree for supplies, kits, and science activities.
As Teacher Appreciation Week comes to an end, students and the Kenwood community hope that teachers feel recognized and valued for their contributions. For students who have yet to plan their appreciation gestures, even a simple thank-you note can mean a lot from a teachers’ perspective. What do you think would be a meaningful way to show appreciation for your favorite teachers?
Sprout West
“The Best Teacher Appreciation Giveaways and Deals for 2024” We are teachers, 8 April 2024
