Top 10 Discounts and Freebies for Teacher Appreciation Week

It is that time of year again where we show our appreciation for our great-hearted educators during Teacher Appreciation Week. The week of May 4-8, 2026 reminds us that behind every thriving student at Great Hearts is a dedicated teacher who inspires, encourages, and opens doors to a brighter future. Our teachers shape both the hearts and the minds of their students. They work long hours, often going far beyond their job descriptions, driven by a deep commitment to helping our scholars pursue Truth, Goodness, and Beauty.

This week is our chance to say thank you. It’s a time to recognize the hard work, creativity, patience, and love that teachers bring into their classrooms every single day. It’s also an opportunity for students, parents, and the community to reflect on the countless ways teachers have made a lasting difference, whether through a kind word of encouragement, a well-planned lesson, or simply by believing in a student’s potential.

As part of this national celebration, many retailers and businesses across the country are offering freebies, discounts, and special deals exclusively for teachers. These small tokens of appreciation are one way to acknowledge the role teachers play in our society. Whether it’s a discounted meal or experience, these offers are a tangible way of saying how much we appreciate and want to thank our great-hearted teachers.

Below is a curated list of some of the best Teacher Appreciation Week freebies and discounts available this year. Make sure to check each retailer’s website or visit in person. Most offers require a valid teacher ID or proof of employment.

1. 1. Free Car Wash at Super Star Car Wash
      In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, May 4-8, Super Star Car Wash is offering free car washes to school employees at all locations.
   2. 50% off meals and a free meal on May 5 at Westside Concepts restaurants
      Teachers get 50% off May 4–8 with educator/school support team ID at Copper & Sage, Four Corners Taphouse, Haymaker, and Maple & Rye. On May 5, teachers can receive a free meal with valid school ID.
   3. 15% off all orders at Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
      May 4–8 for teachers and nurses with valid school/workplace ID.
   4. Free coffee at First Watch
      Free hot or iced coffee for teachers May 2–8 in restaurants all day; hot coffee includes complimentary refills for dine-in guests.
   5. 20% off at Hash Kitchen
      Teachers and nurses get 20% off May 4–12 with valid teacher/nurse ID.
   6. Free Educator Pass at Arizona Science Center
      Available to Pre-K–12 Arizona educators, supported by APS. Apply at https://www.azscience.org/learn/educators/free-educator-pass/
   7. Teacher Night at Bouldering Project
      On the first Wednesday of the month, educators can climb for free on their first visit, and then $10 on future Teacher Night visits.
   8. 10% Teacher Discount at Target
      Target offers 10% Teacher Discount nationwide during Teacher Appreciation Week, alongside year-round benefits. Learn more at https://corporate.target.com/press/release/2026/05/target-offers-10-teacher-discount-nationwide-during-teacher-appreciation-week,-alongside-year-round
   9. Free Breakfast Item at Whataburger
      On Thursday, May 7, 2026, Whataburger is offering a free breakfast item (Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit, Breakfast on a Bun, or Taquito) to teachers and school staff from 5am to 9am. The offer requires a valid school ID, is available for dine-in, takeout, or drive-thru at participating locations, and is limited to one per person. Learn more at https://stories.whataburger.com/whatateacher-2026/
   10. Free Bagel & Shmear with Any Purchase Einstein Bros. Bagels
       On Wednesday, May 6, educators can show valid work ID and receive a free Bagel & Shmear with any purchase at participating locations.

Do you have a story or know of one that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts? Please contact jmoore@greatheartsamerica.org.

Submit a student application to a Great Hearts Academy by visiting: https://www.greatheartsamerica.org/enroll/.