As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving this week, it’s a great time to reflect on all of the aspects of the education profession that teachers are thankful for. We took a look back at some of our past blogs and posts from educators to compile this list of what makes teachers feel thankful. 

Here are our top 20 reasons why teachers are thankful for teaching:

1. Fellow teachers: Great coworkers make a huge difference—especially when you can help, encourage, and collaborate with each other.
   
   
2. Students: Students both past and present can make a big impact on a teacher’s life. Teachers watch as their students grow up, graduate, and go on to become adults—all while imparting their knowledge in the hopes of inspiring their future careers.
   
   
3. Parents: Let’s face it—in teaching, dealing with parents can be tough. But there are also many supportive, funny, and genuinely nice parents, making it all worthwhile.
   
   
4. Summer break: Each year, teachers get a break from their normal day-to-day routine over the summer months. Whether that time is filled with a second job, staying at home, travel, or relaxing at the beach, the time away from the classroom is much-deserved.
   
   
5. Classroom technology: Today’s classroom looks significantly different to the classrooms of 20 years ago. And that’s not a bad thing! Technology is constantly evolving, and the devices and software available to educators helps elevate lessons in new ways to keep students engaged in learning.
   
   
6. The “A-ha!” moment: There’s nothing quite like seeing a student’s face light up when they finally grasp a difficult concept!
   
   
7. Working with children: Even though some days may be difficult, working with children is immensely rewarding. Plus, they laugh at corny jokes and it’s always nice to see them engaged and having fun as they learn!
   
   
8. The content: Teachers don’t choose a subject by chance—it’s what they’re passionate about! There’s something very special about passing on that knowledge and passion to the next generation.
   
   
9. Grading: Not necessarily the grading part itself, but finishing up the stack of students’ work that needed to be graded and seeing who gets it, who might need a little help, and who might have a future in the field is very rewarding.
   
   
10. The variety: Every day in the education world is little bit different. Whether you’re a school librarian, high school history teacher, or kindergarten teacher, no two days are exactly the same. No matter the day, teaching is never, ever boring!
    
    
11. Learning and growing: While we generally think about students learning and growing, the same is true for teachers! Educators are constantly learning new things and growing to adapt to changes within the school, their community, and the world.
    
    
12. Snow days: Sure, winter weather can be tough, but there’s something incredibly wonderful about a day to stay inside, curl up under a blanket, and relax with a good book!
    
    
13. Lesson planning: There is nothing like the pure satisfaction of a perfectly crafted lesson. When the stars align and the content is just right, the students are engaged, and everyone gets the concept, the result is absolutely magical!
    
    
14. Professional development: Both students and teachers benefit from professional development, which can help ensure that technology tools available in the classroom are being used to their full potential. Professional development helps improve both teaching and learning quality, boosting motivation, effectiveness, and student engagement.
    
    
15. Teacher discounts: At various times of the year—including back to school, summer break, and Teacher Appreciation Week—retailers will offer discounts to teachers to thank them for their hard work and efforts. Some even offer these discounts all year long, helping teachers save on everything from classroom supplies and books to apparel and cell phone plans.
    
    
16. Supportive administration: Having an administration that is supportive of teachers is a huge asset! When it comes to resources, professional development, and even dealing with parents, support from the school’s administrative team really makes a teacher’s life easier.  
    
    
17. Online educator communities: Need help putting together a lesson plan, want to get feedback from fellow educators, or looking for training to effectively implement a new piece of classroom tech? Interactive teaching communities are a great way to connect with other teachers for advice, content, and more!
    
    
18. Field trips: A break from the norm is fun for both students and teachers, and the educational aspect to field trips is a major bonus. Whether it’s to a museum, a play, or a park, field trips are always something to look forward to.
    
    
19. Funding: Yes, budgets can be tight, but there are a variety of funds available to help teachers pay for the things they need for the classroom. When it comes to technology, teachers know what a difference this can make for effective teaching and learning—be sure to check out these funding guides to learn how Boxlight technology or software qualifies for available funds.
    
    
20. Making a difference: Teachers play a major role in helping student develop both academically and emotionally. As students grow, teachers can see the difference their guidance has made—and that is truly something to be thankful for.

What are you thankful for this year? Let us know in the comments below! For more educational content and tips delivered to your inbox all year long, be sure to subscribe to the Educator blog today!