140 Heartfelt Thank You Messages for Teachers from Parents

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Great notes & gifts to show appreciation for your child’s teachers
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We all know that teachers are superheroes, but how do you properly express just how thankful you are for their otherworldly educational efforts? If you’re a parent or student who’s really benefited from the dedication and kindness of an educator this year, consider writing them a heartfelt and personalized note of appreciation. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of sample thank you messages for teachers, covering every situation, subject, and grade level.

The Best Teacher Thank You Notes

  1. You make school a happy place. Thank you for being so kind.
  2. Thanks for lighting the path to knowledge!
  3. David thinks you’re more fun than lunchtime! Thanks for being such a great teacher.
  4. If our kids seem to be getting smarter, it's all your fault. Thanks, teach!
  5. "Our fingerprints don't fade from the lives we touch." – Judy Blume
Section 1 of 12:

Thank You Teacher Messages from Parents

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  1. If you’re a parent, you may know better than anyone just how much teachers have touched and shaped your child’s life. Kids sometimes spend more time at school than they do at home, so it’s pretty inarguable just how much of an impact teachers can have! [1] To properly show your thanks to your child’s educator, try one of these thank you messages from parents to teachers:
    • Thank you for being a guiding light in our child's journey. Your passion makes a world of difference.
    • Big hearts shape little minds. We feel blessed to have you as their teacher. Thanks (teacher name) !
    • Your classroom is a place of growth, respect, and learning, and we're grateful that our child is a part of it.
    • In you, we've found a teacher who truly understands and cares for our child. Thank you for being exceptional.
    • In a world where teachers can make a lifelong impact, you stand out as one of the best. Thank you for everything you do.
    • Your enthusiasm for teaching is infectious, and it's made our child excited about school. Thank you for being an inspiration.
    • You took our shy little (student name) and made them more confident. You are the best kind of teacher, and we can’t thank you enough.
    • Our family is incredibly grateful for the positive impact you've had on (student name) life. Your influence reaches far beyond the classroom.
    • You see the potential in every child and help them realize it, it's an exceptional talent and we're truly grateful to have had you as (student name) teacher.
    • Thanks for going above and beyond this year. I know it's been challenging, but I really appreciate all of your hard work to engage (student name) . They are really going to miss you!
    • We are amazed by how far our child has come under your tutelage, and we’re so endlessly appreciative of your unwavering dedication to and belief in (student name) ’s potential.
    • I want to express my sincere gratitude for the positive impact you’ve made on (student name) ’s academic growth. Thank you for making learning exciting and engaging for your students.
    • I wanted to take a moment to thank you for all of the challenges you’ve helped our child overcome this year. Your incredible support, guidance, patience, and encouragement have made all the difference in (student name) ’s progress.
    • I want to thank you profusely for fostering such a warm and welcoming learning environment for your students. (Student name) has shared so many stories about your lessons, and we’re grateful for the joy and enthusiasm you bring to teaching.
    • Our child has grown so much as a person this year, thank you for helping them develop and build confidence in themselves. Your class is a place where our child not only learns but also feels valued and cherished. Thank you for creating that environment.
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Section 2 of 12:

Short Thank You Teacher Messages

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  1. Keep things short and sweet with a brief thank you message. Teachers aren’t particularly well known for having a whole lot of free time. [2] So, some teachers may appreciate a short and concise thank you message that still gets your point across! Share your gratitude in just a few words with these short thank you messages for teachers: [3]
    • Thank you for shaping our child’s future!
    • Thanks for lighting the path to knowledge!
    • Thanks for always going the extra mile for us!
    • You believed in our student when they didn’t. Thank you.
    • You've been more than a teacher; you've been an inspiration.
    • Because of you, our child has really started to love (class subject) .
    • Thank you for being a mentor, guide, and most importantly, a friend.
    • If our kids seem to be getting smarter, it's all your fault. Thanks, teach!
    • Your lessons have left an indelible mark on (student name) ’s life. I’m forever grateful!
    • When we think back on this year, having our child in your classroom was the best part.
    • Feeling so grateful for all you have done and achieved with us this year! You're the best.
    • Thank you for inspiring our child to believe in themselves and to never give up on their dreams!
    • (Student name) was never so excited about learning before you. You're the absolute best teacher.
    • You've not only taught subjects but also valuable life lessons. Thank you for being such an incredible teacher!
    • I want you to know that your hard work, dedication, and passion for teaching are truly appreciated. Thank you!
Section 3 of 12:

Funny Thank You Teacher Messages

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  1. Your child’s teacher has probably done you a whole lot of favors this year, so why not return some of them with a hearty laugh! These unique and hilarious thank you messages are sure to tickle your teacher’s funny bone, while also showing them just how grateful you are: [4]
    • Thank you for ins- pi -ring our child to love math! You certainly put the fun in function!
    • Thanks for getting (student name) on the write track! We are lit up about their English grades!
    • Thanks for teaching our child watts of new and interesting things—they’ve never loved science class so much!
    • (Student name) really got a kick out of your class! Thank you for motivating them to stay on the ball throughout gym class this year!
    • We would love to shine a spotlight on your performance this year! Your directing of this year's drama class deserves a standing ovation!
    • To the ghostwriter of our child's success! Thank you for allowing their character to develop at the right pace. On to the next chapter!
    • Four score and seven tests ago, we didn't think this day would come. Thank you for making sure that history class doesn't need to repeat itself!
    • Every time I drop my kid off at school, I think “I could never do this job.” Thank you for your endless patience, skill, and dedication. We appreciate you!
    • Looking at (student name) ’s past, present, and future, things were a bit tense to start, but you got them in the right frame of time . Thanks for guiding them through grammar!
    • Thanks for calling my kid “strong-willed” when there were so many other words you could’ve used. We appreciate your kindness (and patience) more than we can say!
    • Thanks for solving (student name) ’s math problems! We hope they multiply your salary because your positive influence has shaped another young mind. We will calc -you- later !
    • Periodically , there is a mixture that triggers an astounding reaction. You were the solution that dissolved our child’s dislike of science. We don't know what we will do once you Ar- gone !
    • What on Earth would we have done without you? Thank you for turning (student name) in the right direction and making sure their grades were not all over the map in geography class this year!
    • We know that being a teacher is hard, so the least we can do is get you a card! In all seriousness, we’re so grateful for all of the hard work you do that often goes unrecognized. Please know that we are always grateful for all you do for us and our child.
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Section 4 of 12:

Thank You Quotes About Teachers

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  1. Borrow some eloquent words about the field of education. Sometimes, our own words fail to express the sincere and complete gratitude we have for teachers in our lives. In these instances, it may be best to turn to famous writers, artists, and philosophers who have shared their own thoughts on teaching and teaching professionals. Here are just a few quotes that you can use to thank a teacher: [5]
    • “Nine-tenths of education is encouragement.” – Anatole France
    • "Our fingerprints don't fade from the lives we touch." – Judy Blume
    • “Teaching kids to count is fine, but teaching them what counts is best.” – Bob Talbert
    • “I am indebted to my father for living, but to my teacher for living well.” – Alexander the Great
    • “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” – Henry B. Adams
    • “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” – Benjamin Franklin
    • “A good teacher is one who makes himself progressively unnecessary.” – Thomas Carruthers
    • “A good teacher can inspire hope; ignite the imagination, and instil a love of learning.” – Brad Henry
    • “Good teaching is more a giving of right questions than a giving of right answers.” – Josef Albers
    • “All students can learn and succeed, but not in the same way and not in the same day.” – William G. Spady
    • “Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher.” – Japanese Proverb
    • “I like a teacher who gives you something to take home to think about besides homework.” – Lily Tomlin
    • "The duties of a teacher are neither few nor small, but they elevate the mind and give energy to the character." – Dorothea Dix
    • “One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings.” – Carl Jung
    • "The great teacher is not the man who supplies the most facts, but the one in whose presence we become different people." – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Section 5 of 12:

Thank You Messages for Music & Art Teachers

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  1. The arts aren’t always appreciated as a school subject, so it’s even more important to show appreciation for the teachers who bring creativity, beauty, and inspiration into your student’s life. [6] These thank you messages are perfectly suited to show appreciation for teachers of drama, art, music, and more:
    • I’m grateful for the way that you’ve opened (student name) ’s ears and heart to the beauty of music.
    • Your understanding nature has made learning music a stress-free experience for our child. Thank you.
    • Thank you for showing our student that practice makes progress. Your encouragement keeps them going.
    • Your passion for art is contagious, and I’m thankful for the creativity you’ve inspired within (student name) .
    • Your belief in our child’s abilities has given them the confidence to pursue their musical dreams. We’re forever grateful.
    • Your guidance has not only improved our child’s skills but also deepened their appreciation for art. Thank you.
    • Thank you for instilling a love for art in your students and encouraging our child to pursue their creative aspirations.
    • I appreciate the constructive feedback and support you’ve provided (student name) with throughout their artistic endeavors.
    • You certainly brightened (student name) ’s world this semester! Thank you for turning the pigments of their imagination into art!
    • Your mentorship has been invaluable to (student name) , and I’m grateful for the impact you’ve had on their artistic development.
    • Your lessons have made (student name) appreciate art in its many forms. Thank you for teaching them to see the beauty in every stroke and every shade.
    • You’ve not only taught our student about art but also inspired them to see the world through a different lens. Thank you for your guidance and inspiration.
    • We know that (student name) can be a bit of treble sometimes, but you certainly know how to conduct a class! Thank you, and try to take a rest this summer!
    • We will be singing your praises for years to come! We are so impressed with how sharp a singer (student name) has become. You could say that teaching music is your forte !
    • Thank you for encouraging your students to take risks, explore diverse art styles, and find beauty in imperfection. Your wisdom has transformed our child’s perspective on art.
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Section 6 of 12:

Thank You Messages for Preschool & Elementary Teachers

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  1. Express gratitude for those who look after your littlest learners. Teachers who dedicate themselves to early childhood and elementary education have the important job of establishing a foundation for the rest of your child’s educational career. [7] Show your respect for these skilled (and patient!) professionals with a message that acknowledges all of the expertise and energy that they provide to students on a daily basis. If your child is in daycare, preschool, kindergarten, or elementary school, these thank you messages will be perfect for their teachers:
    • Thank you for being a hero to my family—we really appreciate your excellent work!
    • Thank you for teaching arts and crafts to my child. They enjoy painting and can hold a pencil perfectly.
    • Thank you for helping my child to explore new ways of doing things—you're such a wonderful person!
    • You're a blessing not only to toddlers but to many working parents. Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication!
    • You've been very helpful to my child. My child is now teaching their younger sibling the ABCs perfectly. What an interesting experience!
    • Thanks for making my child feel entertained, loved, and special. I cannot thank you enough for your commitment to their academic progress.
    • Thanks for teaching my precious baby how to write with a pencil, take turns, and wash hands after using the restroom. You're very special to me!
    • Thank you for always making my child feel special, loved, and cared for. I'm more than blessed to have you as their early childhood education teacher.
    • Thank you for taking note of what my child needs to nurture their interest in learning and for reporting their progress at school to me. You're the best teacher.
    • I just wanted to thank you for teaching my child some of the basic social skills they will need in elementary school. I cannot thank you enough for your help.
    • Thank you for paying close attention to my child's emotional problems and for not hesitating to bring them to my attention. You're an excellent teacher!
    • You cannot imagine how much comfort your support has given me while I'm away from my child each day. Thanks for making me feel at ease while I'm at work!
    • If anyone deserves accolades for my child's growth and success, it's you. You're the most important person in the world, and we are really blessed to have you!
    • I have no doubt that my children will perform wonderfully in elementary school. You've given them all they'll need to succeed in their future endeavors. Thank you for giving them a wonderful start in their quest for knowledge.
    • At first, I was nervous about leaving my child with a stranger for the first time. However, you've proven yourself to be an experienced caregiver that one can rely on. Thank you for loving my child as much as I do. You're a talented and energetic teacher!
Section 7 of 12:

Thank You Messages for Middle & High School Teachers

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  1. Share your appreciation for the ever-patient teachers of adolescents. From puberty to the PSATs, middle and high school teachers see our students through a lot . These educators are essential to guide young minds as they continue to discover their identities, learning goals, and future plans. [8] To repay them for all of this hard work, show your heartfelt gratitude with one of these thank you messages for secondary teachers:
    • We appreciate how much you do for your students. Thank you for all of your hard work.
    • This was such a crazy year. Thank you for helping us all get through. I'll never forget you.
    • Thank you so much for all your guidance. (Student name) has learned so much thanks to you.
    • (Student name) was so lucky to have such a wonderful teacher this year. Thank you for everything.
    • You inspire your students to be better people and to always strive to do their very best. Thank you for being a wonderful teacher.
    • This year has been such a steep learning curve for our child, and you contributed so much to their success. Thank you so much.
    • Taking your class has changed my child’s life. Because of your teaching and passion, they’ve even decided to change their intended major at college!
    • Thank you for going out of your way to help (student name) . Even though you are so busy, you still always found the time for them. We’ll never forget that.
    • Thank you for all the hard work you put into making your class such a beautiful and supportive place. Our child has loved having you as a teacher this year.
    • As you know, (student name) found this subject extremely challenging. We’re so grateful for your constant encouragement and dedication in helping them to pass.
    • Thanks to you, (student name) was able to come out of their shell this year and gain confidence. We're so grateful for how you gently encouraged and supported them.
    • Thank you for demonstrating our school values and being such a wonderful role model for our school community. We're so grateful to have you as a teacher at our school.
    • We appreciate how much effort you put into teaching. Our child has had a wonderful year and has achieved so much academically and socially thanks to your hard work.
    • You are such an inspiration to (student name) . They look up to you so much and always do their best because of you. Thank you for sharing your passion with the students. It's contagious!
    • We were so nervous at the start of the year. But you made (student name) feel so welcome and included. In the past they’ve struggled to make friends, but now they have tons! Thanks for your constant support.
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Section 8 of 12:

Thank You Teacher Messages from Students

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  1. Whether you have a teacher who’s helped you through a difficult subject, taught you everything you know, or simply been a positive beacon of light in your day-to-day school life, it’s well worth the effort to thank them properly. To fully express your appreciation, write them one of these thank you messages from students: [9]
    • You make school a happy place. Thank you for being so kind.
    • “To be or not to be…” I’m so glad you decided “to be” a teacher!
    • You're more fun than lunchtime! Thanks for being the BEST teacher ever.
    • You're like a magical superhero unicorn teacher. You make every day great.
    • Can you PLEAASE be my teacher again next year? I'm going to miss you so so much.
    • Your classroom was always a safe haven for me. Thank you for the warmth and understanding!
    • “The good teacher explains. The great teacher inspires.” Thanks for being an inspiration to me this school year!
    • I used to be scared of math, but now I like it because of you. Thanks for being patient with me and helping me.
    • I love your class because you make learning so much fun. Thank you for being the coolest teacher I've ever had.
    • I love our dance parties when it's raining outside, and meditation time after lunch. Thank you for making school so great.
    • Your fun spin on teaching made it all the easier for me to actually want to show up to school. Thank you for all that you do!
    • This is the year I started to care about learning; you were the most significant reason my attitude changed. I’ll never forget you. Thank you!
    • You’re the reason that I am now pursuing my dreams! Thank you for helping me discover what I'm good at and always encouraging me to do my best.
    • We'll have many teachers throughout our life, but a special few leave a lasting impression. Thank you for being one of the teachers I’ll always remember.
    • The passion you have for your job and what you teach is contagious. We always look forward to your classes. Here’s a big “Thanks, Teacher!” from all your students.
Section 9 of 12:

Graduation & End of Year Thank You Teacher Messages From Students

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  1. Mark this special occasion by acknowledging a teacher who got you there. Whether it’s just the end of a long school year or a celebratory commencement day, it’s important to commemorate the teacher (or teachers) who have helped you or your child reach that point. This emotional time is well-suited to a heart-touching thank you message, and we’ve assembled some of our favorites (for both students and parents) below: [10]
    • As the year ends, I realize how lucky I’ve been to have you as my guide. Thank you for everything!
    • When I look back on these years, it will be the lessons I learned in your classroom I remember most.
    • I will always remember your dedication, patience, and kindness! I'm so proud to say I learned from you.
    • I am so grateful for the countless hours you spent preparing us for this moment, and for being the best mentor.
    • Thank you for being a mentor, guide, and friend throughout my academic journey. Your impact will last a lifetime!
    • This diploma isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a symbol of the countless hours you’ve invested in me. Thank you!
    • As I turn the tassel, I’m reminded of the many ways you’ve enriched my life. Thank you for being a part of this journey!
    • Thank you for helping us discover our strengths, overcome our weaknesses, and for believing in us every step of the way.
    • You have been a true inspiration, and I'm so honored to have had you as my teacher during this important chapter of my life.
    • I'm so grateful for your encouragement this year. You never gave up on me. Thanks to your support I am standing here today graduating!
    • Now, it's time to tell you congratulations on making it to graduation! We couldn't have done it without your support, guidance, and mentorship.
    • As we celebrate this important milestone, I want to take a moment to thank you for being an incredible teacher and for helping us reach our full potential.
    • I sincerely believe that I wouldn’t have made it to graduation without you. Thank you for supporting me every step of the way—words can’t express how grateful I am.
    • Thank you for challenging me to think critically, encouraging me to pursue my passions, and providing me with the tools I need to succeed not only in school, but in life.
    • Your passion for teaching and genuine care for your students have made all the difference in my academic success. Thank you for guiding me to this milestone.
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Section 10 of 12:

Gift Ideas for Teachers

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  1. Go the extra mile with a gift card or personalized present. If you’re able, giving a gift to your child’s teacher goes a long way in showing the extent of your appreciation for all of their hard work. While any teacher will appreciate a heartfelt card from you or your student, they’ll also appreciate a monetary or customized present. Consider a gift card to somewhere you know your teacher frequents (e.g., Amazon, Starbucks, Target), or send them a short questionnaire to get feedback about their interests, preferences, and what gifts they might like. [11]
    • There’s nothing wrong with picking out a mug, candle, or box of chocolates for your child’s teacher. However, keep in mind that these gifts (typically) don’t feel very personal, and teachers get a lot of them.
    • So, your teacher may most appreciate a gift customized to their tastes or a gift card that they can use to purchase something for themselves.
Section 11 of 12:

Writing the Perfect Teacher Appreciation Note as a Parent

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  1. Any note that comes from the heart will be a wonderful mark of appreciation for your child’s teacher. As long as you sincerely express the gratitude you feel for an educator’s hard work this year, your note will be perfect, but here are some tips to help you get started: [12]
    • Be sincere and personal . Avoid writing a trite message by mentioning specific examples of how this teacher has impacted your child’s life and learning.
    • Point to specific challenges. Mention any specific challenges that your child has faced this year and successfully overcome with the help of their teacher.
    • Mention your child by name. Some teachers have a lot of students, so make sure to specifically name your child and their grade level.
    • Include a small gift. A thank you note is wonderful, but a small token of appreciation is even better. Consider adding a gift card or homemade treat to your note.
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Section 12 of 12:

Writing the Perfect Teacher Appreciation Note with Your Child

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  1. Teachers definitely appreciate a heartfelt appreciation from a student’s parents, but their most special relationship is with your child. Educators love nothing more than a sweet message of gratitude from students, so ask your child to contribute to the note in at least one of the following ways: [13]
    • Ask your child to share a specific memory of their teacher. Encourage your child to share a special experience, then include this anecdote in your note.
    • Have them add their own message or picture. Ask an older child to write their own thank you note alongside yours, or have a younger child draw a picture.
    • Allow your child to decorate the note or envelope . Give them stickers, stamps, and markers to fully deck out and personalize their teacher’s thank you message.
    • Have your child sign their name. Even if your child is too young to write their own note , having them sign their name at the bottom will add a personal touch.
    • Include a photo of your child. If they feel comfortable, take a photo of your child holding the thank you note and gift it to your teacher as a keepsake.

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      References

      1. ↑ https://gse.touro.edu/news/stories/children-spend-more-awake-hours-in-school-than-they-do-at-home.php
      2. ↑ https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/heres-how-many-hours-a-week-teachers-work/2022/04
      3. ↑ https://www.edutopia.org/groups/education-leadership/787686
      4. ↑ https://www.today.com/life/quotes/teacher-quotes-rcna37126
      5. ↑ https://soeonline.american.edu/blog/25-inspirational-quotes-for-teachers/
      6. ↑ https://bowiestate.edu/academics/colleges/college-of-arts-and-sciences/departments/communications/student-organizations-and-publications/the-spectrum/2022/why-is-arts-education-undervalued-in-college.php
      7. ↑ https://www.goodwin.edu/enews/importance-of-early-childhood-educators/
      8. ↑ https://www.graduateprogram.org/2023/01/the-importance-of-middle-school/
      9. ↑ https://www.edutopia.org/groups/education-leadership/787686
      1. ↑ https://blog.gratefulness.me/thank-you-teacher-messages/
      2. ↑ https://ptaourchildren.org/gift-ideas-for-teacher-appreciation-week/
      3. ↑ https://characterlab.org/tips-of-the-week/thanks-to-teachers/
      4. ↑ https://characterlab.org/tips-of-the-week/thanks-to-teachers/

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