What to Write in a Thank You Note to Teachers

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 to the teacher in your life.

Browse Thank You Messages

By recipient:

For daycare and preschool teachers
For kindergarten teachers
For elementary school teachers
For high school teachers
For special education teachers
For substitute teachers

By sender:

From parents
From students

By tone:

Short
Funny
Quotes
Reflective
Growth and development

Tips For Writing Thank You Notes For Teachers

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!”

Give Praise

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!”

Be Brief

A few carefully chosen words can go a long way when writing thank you messages for teachers. It’s perfectly okay to keep your note short, sincere and to the point. You could say, “Thank you for believing in me,” or “Your patience and support made all the difference this year.” Even a brief message like “You’ve been an incredible teacher — thank you!” can leave them smiling.

Highlight Their Impact

How did they make a difference? Maybe their patience built confidence or their creativity inspired a passion. Add those moments to your thank you messages for teachers with words like, “Your belief in Omar gave him courage to read out loud,” or “Thanks to you, Lena discovered how much she loves science.”

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.

Types of Thank You Messages to the 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. 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:

From Parents:

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!
Thank you for teaching [Aaliyah] with such dedication and care. We’re so grateful for all you do every single day.
You go above and beyond to make learning fun and meaningful — thank you for helping [Cooper] grow more confident.
Thank you for all the joy and effort you pour into your classroom. It truly shows in how much [Roxie] loves school days.

From Students:

Thank you for teaching me so many fun things every day! I love coming to school because of you.
I was so excited to have you as my teacher — and it’s been even better than I hoped!
Thank you for being so nice to me and helping me learn new things. You’re the best!
I love learning with you. Thank you for making the fourth grade so fun (even the homework)!
Thank you for helping me when I don’t understand something. You are a great teacher!

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.

From Parents:

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.
Thank you for making learning feel like play and helping [Lila] discover just how much she loves school.
You’ve turned the first-year jitters into pure excitement for learning — we couldn’t have asked for a better start.

From Students:

Thank you for teaching me to read and count and for making learning so much fun!
I love when we do art and story time — thank you for making school my favorite place to be!
You make me belly laugh every day. Thank you for being such a fun teacher!
Thank you for helping me learn big-kid things and always cheering me on.
I like coming to school because you make it so happy and exciting. Thank you!

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.

From Parents:

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 [Andreas] 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!
You helped [Priya] find her voice and confidence this year — that’s a gift we’ll never forget.
We appreciate the way you see each child’s unique strengths and help them shine. Thank you for everything.

From Students:

You made learning fun, even when it was hard. Thank you for helping me do my best!
I liked coming to school because you made it feel happy and cozy.
You’re the best teacher ever — thanks for always cheering me on!
I’ll never forget the cool projects we did in your art class.
Thank you for helping me when I didn’t understand something. You made me feel smart!

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.
You believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. That meant more than you probably realize.
Thanks for pushing me to do my best (even when I rolled my eyes about it). You were right (don’t tell anyone I said that).
You make learning feel real, like it actually matters. Thank you for showing me how what we study will be used in life.
I always felt like I could be myself in your class. Thank you for creating that kind of space.
You made me want to care — about school, about learning, about my future. That’s something I’ll never forget.

Special Education Teacher Thank You Messages

Sending a thank you message to the teacher who works in special education is a beautiful way to recognize all they do to help every child learn and grow. A heartfelt thank you note is a great way to show just how much it meant to your family.

Thank you for guiding [Lucas] with patience, kindness and endless encouragement.
We’re so grateful for the time, effort and heart you put into helping [Elias] succeed.
Thank you for seeing [Hannah]’s strengths and celebrating every milestone with her.
Your dedication makes such a difference — not just for [Leo], but for our whole family.
Because of you, [Aria] feels proud of what she can do and excited to keep learning.
Thank you for adapting, listening and always meeting [Nathan] where he is with care.
Your patience and compassion have made this year a turning point for [Tia].
Thank you for creating a safe, supportive space where [Isabella] can thrive.
We’ll always be grateful for your kindness, dedication and belief in [Caleb].
Your work goes beyond teaching — you’ve truly changed [Ella]’s life for the better.

Substitute Teacher Thank You Messages

Even when they’re only there for a short time, substitute teachers help keep learning on track. A quick thank you message to the teacher who stepped in is a great way to show you notice and appreciate all they do.

Thank you for diving in with such positivity and enthusiasm for learning.
Your kindness and patience made the classroom such a warm, welcoming place.
Your calm, steady presence helped [Ari] feel comfortable right away — thank you.
You made a big difference in a short amount of time, and we’re so grateful.
Thank you for keeping things running smoothly and with such good energy.
[Yasmin] loved having you as her teacher! You made learning fun every day.
Your flexibility and care really showed what a great teacher you are.
Thank you for stepping up when it mattered most and making a lasting impression.
Your positivity and support made this time such a success for everyone.

Thank You Teacher 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.
Your kindness and encouragement make such a big difference. Thank you for helping [Oliver] learn, laugh and be his true self.
We appreciate the love, structure and fun you bring to the classroom every single day — from your creative science projects to your morning songs. Thank you for everything.
Thank you for pouring all your heart into your teaching. It shows in how much [Charlotte] has grown, especially when she proudly reads aloud!
You’ve made learning an adventure and helped [Maya] believe in herself. We couldn’t be more grateful.
Thank you for creating a classroom that feels like a second home.

Thank You Teacher 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.
Thank you for helping me learn and play every day. I love being in your class!
Thanks for reading us stories after lunch and letting us ask a million questions. You make school feel like an adventure.
Thank you for being nice to everyone and helping me when I feel sad. You’re the best!
You always help me feel brave when I have to talk in front of the class or try something new. I’m really glad you’re my teacher.
Thank you for teaching me to be kind, share and take turns. You make school awesome!
Thanks for being patient when I don’t get math right away (and for celebrating when I finally do)!
I learned so much from you — not just about school stuff, but about life stuff, too.
Even on the tough days, you made me laugh and kept me going. Tests didn’t seem so scary with you there.
You made this year so great. I’ll always remember being in your class!
Thank you for being so passionate about what you teach — it made me actually want to learn.
I used to think I wasn’t good at writing, but you helped me find my voice. That means more than you know.

Short Thank You Messages For Teachers

Sometimes a short thank you message to the teacher with a few heartfelt words is all it takes to make a big impact. Here are a few of our favorites:

Thank you for being such an amazing teacher!
I’ve learned so much from you this year — thank you!
You make learning fun every single day.
Thanks for believing in me and helping me grow.
I’m so grateful for your patience and kindness.
You always go above and beyond for your students — thank you!
Your encouragement means more than you know.
Thanks for making class something I actually look forward to!
You’ve made a lasting impact on my life.
I feel lucky to have had you as my teacher.
Thank you for inspiring me to do my best every day.
Your positivity makes such a difference — thank you!
Thanks for helping me see what I’m capable of.
You’re more than a teacher — you’re a role model.

Funny Thank You Messages For Teachers

A little humor goes a long way! Sharing a funny thank you message to the teacher is a great way to show appreciation while making them smile. After all, they handle a lot — so a good laugh might be just what they need.

Thanks for surviving a whole year of teaching me — I know it wasn’t easy!
You deserve a medal, a vacation and maybe a lifetime supply of coffee.
Thanks for pretending my bad jokes were funny and my homework was on time.
Thanks for teaching me things Google never could.
Thanks for not quitting after the group project incident.
Behind every great student is a teacher who deserves a nap.
You should really add “miracle worker” to your résumé.
Thanks for showing up every day, even when we tested your sanity.
You make school bearable — and that’s the highest compliment I can give.
Thanks for turning chaos into learning and still keeping your sense of humor.

Thank You Quotes For Teachers

Sometimes the perfect words come from others. Adding a meaningful quote can make your thank you teacher’s message extra special.

“It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” — Albert Einstein
“Teaching is the greatest act of optimism.” — Colleen Wilcox
“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” — Benjamin Franklin
“Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher.” — Japanese proverb
“Every child deserves a champion — an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.” — Rita Pierson
“Our fingerprints don't fade from the lives we touch.” — Judy Blume
“If you can read this, thank a teacher.” — Popular saying
“One book, one pen, one child and one teacher can change the world.” — Malala Yousafzai
“Children are likely to live up to what you believe of them.” — Lady Bird Johnson

End of Year Thank You Messages For Teachers

Whether you’re marking graduation or simply the end of term, these thank you teachers messages are a heartfelt way to show appreciation.

Thank you for making every lesson meaningful and every challenge achievable.
Your patience, creativity and kindness made this school year unforgettable.
I’m so grateful for everything you’ve done to help my son learn and grow — from your encouraging notes on his essays to your extra help after school.
You turned hard work into joy and learning into confidence. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Thanks for believing in me, even when I didn’t. You’re the reason I raised my hand in class for the first time.
You made this school year brighter just because you’re you.
Thank you for inspiring a love of literature. I’ll always remember the books we read in class and can’t wait to read the ones you’ve recommended.
I’ll never forget the impact you’ve had, like the day you told me you were proud of my progress. That meant everything.
From the first day to the last, you gave your best — and it meant the world to our family.
Thank you for helping me finish this year strong and for celebrating every little victory along the way.

Thank You Messages For Teachers Focused on Growth and Development

A thank you teacher’s message that celebrates your child’s progress is a sweet way to say thanks. It lets their teacher know their care and dedication really made a difference.

Thank you for helping [Kiara] discover her musical talents and believe in herself.
You’ve inspired [Gabby] to find the magic in mathematics.
Thank you for recognizing [Darius]’s potential and helping his poetry shine.
Your kindness and patience have helped [Lin] blossom both academically and personally.
We’re so grateful for the way you’ve nurtured [Anita]’s creativity. From her writing projects to the class play, you helped her find her gifts.
[Zain] has grown into a more confident student thanks to your guidance — especially when you encouraged him to keep trying even when the work got tough.
You’ve made learning exciting and meaningful for [Ella]. Thank you for helping her reach her goal of making the honor roll.
Thank you for creating a classroom where [Rohan] felt safe and supported — a place where he could ask questions, make mistakes and feel proud of his progress.
We truly appreciate how you encouraged [Lucia] to reach new milestones — from mastering her multiplication tables to giving her the courage to present in front of the class.
Your positive influence will stay with [Oliver] long after this school year ends. Every time we volunteer at the food bank, we’ll think of you.

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!

Browse Thank You Cards For Teachers

Explore our thoughtful collection of thank you cards for teachers — perfect for expressing appreciation at the end of the school year or anytime you want to say thanks. With a wide variety of designs, from classic to heartfelt to fun, you can easily personalize each card with your own thank you teacher’s message. Start your free trial membership to send unlimited digital thank you cards today.