Updated May 5, 2026, 3:09 p.m. MT
Corrections & Clarifications: This story was updated to remove Raising Cane’s from the list of restaurants with Teacher Appreciation Week giveaways, as no Colorado locations are participating.
As the school year draws to a close in Colorado, various businesses are celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week with special deals and discounts for educators. This tradition, initiated by the National Education Association in 1985, recognizes the invaluable contributions of teachers. Coinciding with National Teacher Day, observed on the Tuesday of the week, it has evolved into a nationwide celebration.
Many restaurants and retailers are joining in the appreciation by offering discounts and freebies, usually requiring proof of teaching status, such as a school ID.
Here’s a compilation of the current meal and shopping deals available for teachers:
Meal deals for Teacher Appreciation Week
Educators can enjoy a variety of free or reduced-price meals and drinks at local restaurants:
- Applebee’s: Free appetizer or dessert with the purchase of an entrée at select locations through May 8.
- BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Teachers can request 90 free “Awesome Achievement” certificates for their elementary school students. Each certificate entitles a student to a free full-size Pizookie dessert, no purchase necessary.
- Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop: 20% off in-store orders through May 12.
- Chick-fil-A: Participating locations may offer various deals, potentially including free or discounted chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, or drinks.
- Chipotle: Educators have the opportunity to win one of 100,000 free meals as part of the Chipotle Mexican Grill’s Teacher Appreciation Week giveaway. From now until May 12, teachers can visit Chipotle’s Teacher Thanks website to enter for a chance to win an e-gift card.
- Dog Haus: Teachers can receive 20% off their meal through May 8.
- Eddie Merlot’s: Teachers are eligible for a free dessert with the purchase of an entrée through May 8.
- Einstein Bros. Bagels: Teachers can get a free bagel and shmear of their choice with any purchase on May 6.
- First Watch: Educators can enjoy a free hot or iced coffee, or receive discounts on specialty coffee drinks through May 8.
- Freddy’s Frozen Custard: Free mini sundae for teachers throughout the week.
- Illegal Pete’s: Educators can take advantage of buy one, get one free entrées every Tuesday, available to educators, first responders, and health care workers.
- Insomnia Cookies: Participating locations will have free or buy-one-get-one cookie deals throughout Teacher Appreciation Week.
- Shipley Do-Nuts: Teachers can receive a half-dozen free donuts (no purchase necessary).
- Texas Roadhouse: Enjoy a 10% discount on the total bill through May 8.
- Via 313: 15% discount available through May 8.
- Whataburger: Free breakfast available to teachers and school staff nationwide on May 7. Hours may vary by location.
Shopping deals for Teacher Appreciation Week
In addition to meals, teachers can take advantage of various shopping discounts on classroom supplies, electronics, apparel, and more. Some offers extend beyond Teacher Appreciation Week.
- Daiso: 10% off purchases through May 10.
- Michaels: 15% off selected items.
- Office Depot/OfficeMax: Ongoing discounts for educators.
- Samsung: Discounts of up to 30% on select mobile products through its Education Offers Program.
- Staples: Earn 10% back through classroom rewards programs.
- StitchFix: $40 off the first Fix for Teacher Appreciation Week.
- Target: 10% off a single purchase via Target Circle during Teacher Appreciation Week.
This story was updated to add additional information.
Contributing: Lori Comstock, USA TODAY Network, and Mike Snider, USA TODAY
Nate Trela covers trending news in Colorado and Utah for the USA TODAY Network.
Key Takeaways
- Teacher Appreciation Week runs during the first full week of May, celebrating the contributions of educators.
- Numerous restaurants are offering free or discounted meals for teachers, valid at select locations.
- Many retail stores provide discounts for teaching professionals on classroom supplies and other items.
- Proof of teaching status is often required to access these deals, such as presenting a school ID.
- Various promotions extend beyond Teacher Appreciation Week, providing ongoing support for educators throughout the year.
FAQ
What is Teacher Appreciation Week?
Teacher Appreciation Week is a celebration held during the first full week of May to honor teachers and their contributions.
Do I need identification to receive the discounts?
Yes, most offers require proof of teaching status, such as a school ID.
Are the deals available in all locations?
No, many offers are limited to select locations; it’s best to check with the individual restaurant or retailer.
Do the deals extend beyond Teacher Appreciation Week?
Some promotions do continue beyond the designated week, particularly discounts at retail stores.
Can multiple teachers use the same offer?
Typically, offers are intended for individual educators, but it varies by promotion. Check the terms for each deal.
