National Education Week

Categories:: Special Interest
Tags:: American Educational
Where:: International
Date change rule:: Week starting with the 3rd Monday of November
Holiday emoji:: 📚

National Education Week is observed annually in the U.S. during the week before Thanksgiving, running from November 16-20, 2026. This important week fosters national dialogue between parents, educators, and students on improving the education system. Celebrate the achievements of public schools and honor those who contribute to educational excellence by volunteering, donating, or simply thanking a teacher.

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FAQs
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Expected National Education Week Deals

As National Education Week approaches, expect a range of appreciation programs and special offers for educators. While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows retailers like Barnes & Noble and Lakeshore Learning often provide educator discounts on books and supplies. Technology companies such as Apple and Microsoft frequently extend special pricing on devices and software for school staff. Many local restaurants and coffee shops, including chains like Starbucks, may offer freebies or discounts with a valid educator ID. Online resources like Teachers Pay Teachers often feature sales on educational materials. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as November 15 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Education Week

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalEducationWeek. Share insights on educational trends or spotlight inspiring educators.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalEducationWeek. Post photos of school events or share stories of impactful teachers.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalEducationWeek. Engage in discussions about education policy or share news from local school districts.

National Education Week Hero

Horace Mann

Horace Mann (1796–1859) was an American educational reformer and Whig politician dedicated to promoting public education. Often called the 'Father of the Common School Movement,' he championed universal education and teacher training. As secretary of the Massachusetts Board of Education, he instituted reforms that became models for other states, advocating for free, non-sectarian public schools.

History of National Education Week

The idea of National Education Week was first proposed in 1919 at a meeting between representatives of the American Legion and the National Education Association (NEA). It was first observed in 1921, with the stipulated aim of addressing the shortcomings of the American education system that had given rise to a startlingly high rate of illiteracy in the country—nearly 6%!

Since then, the week preceding Thanksgiving has been earmarked as National Education Week to generate awareness, curiosity, and excitement for learning, while also celebrating the absolutely vital place education holds in our society. It also functions as a mechanism for public schools to secure funds to meet their needs.

Every year, The National Education Association (NEA) decides on an annual theme for National Education Week. For example, one theme is that “substitute educators play a vital role in the maintenance and continuity of daily education.” Also, each day of the week is assigned a different activity. On Monday, the Kick-off Day, students are introduced to the theme and activities planned for the Week. Tuesday is Family Day, when parents are invited to live a day in their children’s shoes, experiencing a school day from their point of view. Making parents empathetic to the learning process ‌benefits students in their performance in the classroom. Wednesday is appointed Education Support Professionals Day and, as the name suggests, it recognizes the importance of support staff. Thursday’s activity, Educator for a Day, is particularly interesting. Community leaders are invited to teach students for a day, sharing their valuable knowledge and insights. Finally, Friday is Substitute Educators Day, which recognizes the invaluable assistance provided by educators who step in to fill in for regular teachers when needed.

For those seeking to know more about access to higher education, many resources and guides are made available, including information on how to get a student loan and student loan alternatives,

National Education Week timeline

597 A.D.

The King’s School Starts

The King's School is established in England and becomes one of the world’s oldest schools.

1821

The First Class

America’s first public school, The English Classical School, opens in Boston with 101 male students.

1870

Let There Be Light

Every state has a public school, but there are only about 500 in the entire country.

1921

Let Us Read

The first National Education Week is observed to help drive down the illiteracy rate.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Education Week

Local businesses can show their appreciation for educators during National Education Week by offering special discounts or hosting appreciation events. Restaurants might provide free meals or discounted catering for school staff, while office supply stores could offer exclusive deals on classroom essentials. Tech companies can highlight their educational software or hardware solutions, and local service providers might sponsor school initiatives or donate to parent-teacher organizations. Boldly recognize the dedication of educators in your community.

National Education Week FAQs

When is National Education Week?

National Education Week 2026 runs from Monday, November 16 through Friday, November 20. This annual observance fosters critical dialogue on improving the education system and honoring educators.

How many public school students are there in the U.S.?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there are approximately 49.4 million students enrolled in public elementary and secondary schools across the U.S. in recent years.

How many teachers are employed in U.S. public schools?

The U.S. public school system employs roughly 3.2 million full-time equivalent teachers. This dedicated workforce is fundamental to educating millions of students annually.

What is the primary goal of National Education Week?

The primary goal of National Education Week is to raise awareness about the importance of public education and to celebrate the achievements of public schools. It also provides a platform for discussing improvements.

How to Observe National Education Week

Pitch in together
A potluck is a great way for parents, teachers, and students to meet and relax with one another. Sharing insights and experiences leads to greater cohesion in the community.
Serve the community
Why not switch roles and ask your cafeteria staff to get off their feet while students serve them for a change? Help support staff by mopping the floors, raking leaves, or cooking lunch.
Celebrate a peer/teacher
Do you know someone in your school who deserves to be commended for the role they play? Why not collaborate with your local daily to highlight their accomplishments in a profile feature?

5 Fascinating Facts About Education

Information overload
The next time you think of complaining about having too much homework, just remember that children in China have 14 hours of homework every day, making them the world’s most studious population.
One on one learning
In 2014, an elementary school in Turin had only one student and one teacher.
Sharing the flame of knowledge
In Russian schools, after the morning assembly, high school seniors lead first graders to their classrooms by hand while ringing a ceremonial bell.
Power to the people
Rap music has been shown in studies to significantly improve students' cognitive ability to grasp and practice complex mathematical concepts.
Supersize school
In 2020, the City Montessori School in Lucknow reported a total enrollment of over 60,000 students.

Why National Education Week is Important

The key to the future
Education is the springboard to success for every child. By honoring those who enable a safe, respectful, and conducive learning environment, we remember to honor the very best members of our community.
Time to shine!
The many essay and elocution competitions are excellent ways to showcase your talent and gain recognition from your peers. Nothing motivates students more than positive feedback from their teachers.
Scope a scholarship
National Education Week is an excellent opportunity for students to learn about and apply for a variety of financial aid options. Scholarships are also available to help teachers afford quality higher education.