TEA-riffic Teachers
A simple, yet effective staff appreciation activity.
Ongoing
Orange You Glad It's Friday?
A low-effort, high-joy way to close out the week.
Alissa Christensen
Surprise your staff on Friday with a spread of orange-themed snacks like Cheetos, Goldfish crackers, Reese's Pieces, and clementines. It's a low-effort, high-joy way to close out the week and send a simple message: I'm glad you're here.
Why try it
Fridays can be tough. A small, unexpected treat shifts the mood and signals to staff that their hard work doesn't go unnoticed. The orange theme makes it feel intentional and fun, and it's the kind of small moment that people remember and talk about.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Things you'll need
Orange-themed snacks (Cheetos, Goldfish, Reese's Pieces, clementines, orange candy, carrots and hummus, etc.)
Table, tray, or basket
Optional: orange napkins or tablecloth
Instructions
1
Shop for orange
Pick up a variety of orange-colored snacks before the school day. Aim for a mix of sweet, salty, and fresh so there's something for everyone.
2
Set up your spread
Arrange the snacks somewhere staff will see them (the break room, the front office, or outside the staff lounge). Add the printable sign to tie it all together.
3
Sit back and enjoy
Announce it in the morning so no one misses it, or keep it a surprise and let the discovery be part of the fun. Either way, check in throughout the day to refill anything that runs out.
Activity variations
Adapt to fit your school's vibe, budget, and setting.
Partner with PTO
Reach out to your PTO to sponsor or provide the snacks. It's a great way to involve families in staff appreciation and spread the cost.
Rolling cart surprise
Load the snacks onto a cart and visit classrooms throughout the day. Bringing the treats to staff instead of waiting for them to come to you makes it feel even more special.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Keep it simple
You don't need a perfectly curated spread. A few bags of snacks and a handwritten sign is more than enough.
Leader Tip #2
Timing matters
Setting up before staff arrive means they're greeted with a surprise, which feels better than discovering it mid-afternoon.
Leader Tip #3
Make it recurring
Even occasional repetition builds anticipation. If staff know it might happen on a Friday, it gives them something small to look forward to all week.
Built by Educators, for School Leaders
This resource was created in collaboration with passionate educators and school leaders who believe in the power of intentional connection.
Alissa Christensen
Head of Customer Success
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