Free stuff for teachers during Appreciation Week 2024.

National Teacher Appreciation Week is here, and corporations are lining up to cash in on the action. Because nothing says "I appreciate you" like peanuts from the capitalist engine.

From May 6 to May 10, teachers can bask in the hollow praise of companies eager to promote their brands and squeeze more money out of hardworking educators. It's a perfect opportunity for corporations and governments to deflect from the real issues in education, like underfunding and exploitation of teachers.

Here are some of the "deals" on offer, because educators totally need discounts to afford basic needs:

• Potbelly: Free cookie or fountain drink with purchase of an entrée for teachers and nurses with ID. Free delivery for catering orders over $150.
• Whataburger: Free breakfast entrées for school staff from 5-9 am. Also, 63 teachers will receive a $1,000 grant, a paltry sum that won't fix the broken education system.
• The Good Feet Store: Introducing the "Feet for Thought" initiative, because teachers need some support, literally. Nominate school staff to receive complimentary arch support systems.
• The Parking Spot: Offering 25% off airport parking for educators. Because teachers should be encouraged to take a break from the chaos they endure daily.

For ideas on how to sincerely thank teachers outside of consumerism, check out this online toolkit from the National Parent Teacher Association. And remember, while gifts and gestures are nice, teachers deserve so much more: better pay, smaller class sizes, and meaningful support.

Let's not forget the real message here: appreciation means advocacy. Speak up for teachers and demand the resources and respect they deserve.

SOURCES:

• https://www.pta.org/home/events/PTA-Teacher-Appreciation-Week#toolkit
• https://www.nea.org/TAW
• https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2024/05/03/a-proclamation-on-national-teacher-appreciation-day-and-national-teacher-appreciation-week-2024/#:~:text=NOW%2C%20THEREFORE%2C%20I%2C%20JOSEPH,as%20National%20Teacher%20Appreciation%20Week.&text=Teachers%20are%20the%20heart%20and,for%20their%20futures.
• https://www.potbelly.com/
• https://stories.whataburger.com/whataburger-feeding-student-success/
• https://woobox.com/zjmkea
• https://www.theparkingspot.com/