National Support Public Education Day
National Support Public Education Day celebrates the heart of our schools—the people who keep them going. It’s a moment to cheer for teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, and counselors.
Mobilize community support for educators through supply drives, volunteer initiatives, and advocacy campaigns that position brands as champions of public education.
- Teacher appreciation supply drive: Partner with schools to collect and donate classroom essentials
- Employee volunteer day: Encourage staff to tutor, mentor, or support school activities
- Social media spotlight: Share stories of educators making a difference in your community
- Advocacy content: Highlight the importance of fair teacher compensation and school funding
National Support Public Education Day started in 2010. It was created by Chris Janotta, a language arts teacher from Illinois.
He launched it with the help of the SOS Million Teacher March, a group focused on public school issues.
The day was meant to bring attention to the growing challenges in education—things like low teacher pay, too much testing, and shrinking classroom resources.
On the first National Support Public Education Day, educators and supporters gathered in several states.
They spoke out, marched, and even collected shoelaces for a project called “Shoelaces for Teachers,” which stood for unity and strength.
The message was clear: public education matters, and it needs support from everyone—parents, leaders, and neighbors.
Since then, the day has stayed quiet but meaningful. Schools, families, and individuals use it to talk about what public schools need to do better.
They show appreciation for school staff and speak up for fair treatment and proper funding.
The goal isn’t to celebrate with big events. It’s to remind people that public schools belong to all of us—and that we each play a part in helping them thrive.
Every child deserves a chance to learn in a safe, well-supported classroom. This day keeps that hope alive.
Share genuine praise online
Post a brief message on social media thanking a teacher, bus driver, librarian, or counselor. Add a photo or tag the school to spread positive energy.
Send a handwritten note
Drop a simple thank-you card into a teacher’s mailbox. A few meaningful sentences can brighten their whole week.
Deliver needed supplies
Contact your neighborhood school and ask which items are missing. Drop off pencils, notebooks, or art materials. Community groups often coordinate drives.
Volunteer your time
Offer to help in a classroom, library, or playground. Even a couple of hours reading, tutoring, or stocking shelves makes a big impact.
Join a school meeting
Attend a school board session or PTA gathering. Listen, ask questions, and advocate for better funding or staff support. Community voices count.
Spotlight education in conversations
Bring up school support in casual talks with friends, colleagues, or relatives. Advocate respectfully for fair teacher pay or school resources.