5 Ways to Appreciate your Teacher

By Jessica Redden

Over the past year we have all been adapting to online working and living, but teachers have continued to go above and beyond showing up for their students virtually and in-person. Whether you are a K-12 student, in college, or emerging professional, take time this teacher appreciation month to tell the inspiring teachers in your life how much you appreciate them! Here are some ideas for ways to show appreciation for the teachers in your life.
 
1. Tell your teacher you appreciate them!
This one seems obvious, but the power of telling someone you appreciate their hard work can’t be underestimated. Write your teacher a note on the back of a homework assignment or stay after class to tell them how much you enjoyed their lesson and are grateful the time they spend helping you. 
​
2. Volunteer to help in class 
Help your classroom run smoothly by volunteering in class. When students volunteer it can help teachers feel supported and let them focus on other elements of the classroom or lesson - making everyone’s experience better! 

3. Participate in lessons 
Teachers are always trying to make classes engaging and fun for students. Show them that you are thankful for their hard work by participating in lessons. If you are online, stay active in the chat or stay on task in breakout groups. In person, share your thoughts during discussion and work hard to complete activities. 

4. Set up a thank you box
Decorate an old shoe box and set out some scratch paper for a classroom or school thank you box. Thank you boxes can help remind students and parents to thank teachers all year round and not just during the month. 
​
5. Reach out to a past teacher 
Teacher appreciation is not just for current students and parents, teachers love to hear how their classes make an impact beyond the school year. If there is a teacher who inspired you in your life, reach out and let them know how their class helped you become the person you are today.