SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week, May 5-11, 2025, to honor the extraordinary contributions of Illinois teachers. ISBE is releasing video messages and launching a social media campaign to lift up Illinois’ incredible educators who inspire, challenge, and empower students every day.
Governor JB Pritzker and State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders have each shared messages of gratitude for Illinois’ teachers:
Additionally, Illinois’ 2024 Teacher of the Year Dr. Rachael Mahmood will have a special honor at the San Francisco Giants v. Chicago Cubs game on Monday, May 5, at Wrigley Field. Dr. Mahmood will lead fans in the iconic tradition of singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” in the middle of the seventh inning. Photos will be available upon request.
“This Teacher Appreciation Week, I want to extend my deepest thanks to the extraordinary educators across Illinois,” said Governor Pritzker in his video message. “Teaching isn’t just a profession -- it’s a calling. Illinois is so proud to be home to so many passionate, talented educators who answer that call with heart and with purpose.”
“Illinois teachers are the heart of our education system,” said Dr. Sanders. “Whether they’re introducing students to their first books, opening doors to college and careers, or simply being a source of encouragement, teachers shape lives in profound and lasting ways. Teacher Appreciation Week is a chance for all of us to reflect on the power of teaching — and to thank the people behind every student’s success.”
Throughout the week, members of the ISBE 2025 Teacher of the Year Cohort will be featured on ISBE’s social media channels sharing tributes to the teachers who inspired them. The campaign, #TeachersInspireTeachers, shines a light on the educators who sparked their passion for the education profession.
Illinois teachers serve more than 1.9 million students every day — helping to shape the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and changemakers. ISBE invites communities, families, and students to take a moment this week to recognize and thank the teachers who make a difference in their lives every day.
View the Teacher Appreciation Week social campaign on Facebook and X.
