What to Write in a Thank You Note to Teacher

Can you even imagine a world without teachers? It’d be a whole lot dumber, that’s for sure — but teachers do SO much more than teach; they encourage, guide and inspire, and we remember our favorite ones for the rest of our lives. They deserve to be thanked!

Are you ready to learn how to write a perfect thank-you message to a teacher? From daycare teachers to high school teachers, and every teacher in between, we’ll help you come up with just the right thank-you message for that awesome teacher in your life.

Tips For Writing Your Thank You Note For Teacher

Be Specific

Instead of simply saying, “You taught Ellie a lot,” consider mentioning what, specifically, the teacher taught your child; try something like, “When Ellie started the school year, she could barely count to three. Now, she’s counting to 100, thanks to you!”
Include compliments and attributes that are specific to the teacher; it’s nice to tell a teacher they’re awesome, but it’s better to say something like, “If a teacher can make his students laugh while teaching them molecular science, he’s definitely in the right profession!”

Include Your Child

If your kiddo is old enough to write, a thank-you note will be more special to their teacher if it comes directly from him or her. High-schoolers can probably write a sincere thank- you, especially with the guidance we’ve provided here. Maybe have your elementary-school child write a sweet, simple line, like, “You’re the best teacher ever!” He or she could possibly include a drawing, too — which is also a great addition to keep in mind if you’re writing a thank-you note to a daycare or preschool teacher.

Thank You Messages For Teacher

Daycare and Preschool Teacher Thank You Messages

We trust them with our most prized possessions. They wipe butts, noses, and tears, and listen to long, drawn-out stories all day long. And the peace of mind we have knowing that our children are in good hands with them, is priceless. Here are some ways to thank a daycare or preschool teacher for everything they do:

Thank you for creating such a fun and educational environment for [Ellie]!
When I leave [Isaac] with you every day, I know he’s safe and cared about — and I can’t tell you how much this means to me.
All your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed — thank you.
I’m sure you don’t hear this enough, but you’re a really great daycare/preschool teacher.
Thanks for putting up with my kid!

Kindergarten Teacher Thank You Messages

This is where things really start to kick in. This is where, as they say, you learn everything you ever need to know. Kindergarten teachers are the first to notice a child’s gifts, their apprehensions, and how to help them find themselves every day. They know so much is riding on the shoulders of all those littles, so they’ll do everything they can to make that first year of school positive, fun and happy. Here are some examples of thank-you messages for kindergarten teachers when you want to give them kudos for a great educational start:

You are a gift to kindergarteners. And to parents. Thank you for all you do.
You know that [Evy] likes monkeys and that she has [a baby brother] and a [dog named Applejack]. You took a shy little kindergartener and made her more confident. You are the best kind of teacher, and I can’t thank you enough.
You have rock star status in our house, and [Nicky] can’t wait to get to kindergarten each day. Thanks for being so amazing.
Thank you for understanding that kindergarteners need a lot of help and the parents sometimes need a lot of handholding, too. We appreciate you so much.
[Jamal] never comes home without something exciting to tell about his day in kindergarten. Thank you for caring so much to make every day fun and inspiring.

Elementary Teacher Thank You Messages

Elementary school teachers are notoriously overworked and underappreciated. They certainly aren’t in it for the money; they teach our children because they love teaching children. They appreciate watching our mini humans grow and make discoveries. They’ll love being thanked, so consider using one of the following phrases in your thank-you note to an elementary teacher.

We feel so lucky that [Ellie] got you for a teacher this year. We certainly hit the jackpot in the teacher department!
We’ll remember you — your patience, your kindness, and your intelligence — forever.
Thank you for teaching [Ellie] about so much more than math and reading. The real-life skills you’ve instilled in her will help her go far.
Your positive attitude is contagious, and [Isaac] comes home in a good mood every day!
I can’t believe how much [Isaac] is learning in your classroom. Thank you for making school so exciting for him!

High School Teacher Thank You Messages

It’s no secret that teenagers are challenging. Being in the room with just one of them is enough to make some people want to run for the hills — and high school teachers interact with dozens of teenagers every day, and somehow, they teach them about math and literature and life in the process. If we don’t thank them ourselves, let’s encourage our children to thank them. Here are a few idea starters your teen could use, ranging from fun to heartfelt:

Thanks so much for writing my college recommendation letter! You made me sound way cooler than I actually am.
You’re the reason I survived studying for the SAT! Seriously, your tips helped me more than you’ll ever know.
I can’t believe how much I’ve learned in your class. You made even the toughest subjects fun and made me want to keep going. Thanks for everything!
Thanks for always being there with advice when I needed it most. You’ve been such a huge part of my high school journey!
I’ll never forget how much you helped me with my college essay. Your guidance helped me find my voice, and it was so much more than just an essay — it was my future. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Thank You Messages From Parents

As parents, we know how much of an impact teachers have on our children’s lives. It’s not just about the lessons they teach, but the way they encourage, inspire and help our kids grow. Here are a few heartfelt ways you can show your appreciation for the amazing teachers in your child’s life:

[Ellie] has come so far this year, thanks to your guidance and encouragement.
Of all the teachers [Isaac] has had, you’re the one who shines the brightest.
Thank you for giving [Isaac] the tools he needs to succeed!
I’m so grateful for everything you’ve done for [Ellie] this year.
You’re everything a teacher should be — kind, compassionate, patient, brilliant—and so much more.

Thank You Messages From Students

Encouraging your child to write a thank-you note to their teacher is a great way to show appreciation for all the hard work they do. It’s a simple gesture that can really make a teacher’s day. Here are a few ideas to help your child get started!

You’re so much more than “just” a teacher. You’re my mentor and friend, and I’ll take your lessons with me wherever I go.

Thank you for believing in me.
You’re the best teacher I’ve ever had.
You showed me how capable I am of achieving great things — and I’ll always be grateful to have had you for a teacher.
Why can’t all teachers be as awesome as you?! You always make learning fun.

Add a Gift To Your Thank You Note For Teacher Digital Gift Card

One final thought: Adding a small gift to your thank you note is a nice touch to show your appreciation. It’s a simple way to make your gesture even more special. Need ideas? Check out our gift guide for some great gift ideas for teachers!