I still remember it like it was yesterday: sixth grade math Fridays. It was the day we put our skills to the test. How many math facts could we complete in record time? My teacher, Sr. Mary Joseph Ellen made us do this every Friday. I often grumbled at the time, not fully realizing what this practice was really doing. This set me up for success today by helping me build my strong math skills. I use those skills today, and often think of  Sr. Mary Joseph Ellen. I’m thankful for her. 

I’m sure you have a teacher like that, too. Someone who saw your potential, believed in you, and encouraged you. Perhaps you had a teacher that pushed you to try new things, to challenge yourself, and to keep going when things got difficult. Or maybe it was a favorite teacher who welcomed you each day with a kind word and a smile. Her classroom was a safe place to land. 

Now, you may see that same passion, dedication and care in your child’s teacher. Teachers put in a lot of work behind the scenes, planning lessons, grading papers, answering emails, communicating and crafting activities to keep learning fun and engaging. From the early elementary days, to the trying middle school years, to the challenging days of high school, teachers are there through every stage, guiding students into the people they are meant to be. 

The world is full of amazing teachers, and we are so very lucky to have them.  This week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and teachers deserve to know how appreciated they are. 

We’ll be celebrating all week long at Ashley’s Pastries. When you stop by to pick up a favorite treat for a favorite teacher, be sure to ask about our Certificates of Appreciation. You can use these to write a note of thanks, a word of encouragement, or simply share what makes them an awesome teacher. You can also pick one up for your child to complete for his or her teacher. A handwritten note from a student would mean so much. 

In case this week got lost in the shuffle of the busyness of May, don’t worry! We can help put together a tray of treats and have them ready for pickup to share with your favorite teacher. 

We enjoy helping celebrate life’s moments and milestones, but we also want to help make things simple, yet meaningful.

Here are a few simple ways to celebrate teachers this week:

  • Treat your teacher to a cup of coffee and pair it with a Danish from Ashley’s Pastries for a sweet start to the day. 
  • Tie a pretty ribbon around a multi-pack of cookies for a tasty treat at the end of the day. 
  •  Add a handwritten thank-you note to any sweet —it’s a small gesture that makes a big impact.
  • Drop off a “just because” snack to brighten their afternoon.

Whether big or small, these gestures are a simple way to say thank you to the teachers who give so much each day. A little kindness goes a long way in reminding them just how much they’re appreciated.