As Educator Appreciation Days at PNC Park approach, we at The Education Partnership (TEP) have been reflecting on something we’re genuinely proud of. Our long-standing partnership with the Pittsburgh Pirates speaks to their deep, ongoing commitment to supporting and uplifting educators in our community.
Collaborating for Teacher Appreciation Day Games
This past winter, that partnership took on a particularly meaningful form. Teachers from several of our partner schools made their way to PNC Park to collaborate with Pirates staff on something special: a custom activity workbook designed for students attending the Education Day game.
These educators, spanning multiple grade levels and subject areas, brought their classroom expertise to the table, helping shape a workbook that gives students a chance to actively engage with the game around them. Through questions covering language arts, math, and career education, the workbook transforms a day at the ballpark into a genuine learning experience.
Our team had the privilege of sitting in on these sessions, and it was something to witness. Watching teachers pour their knowledge and care into every page, alongside Pirates staff who matched their enthusiasm, was a reminder of what’s possible when the greater Pittsburgh community comes together for kids.
The result is a workbook crafted with real intention: engaging, educational, and built by people who care deeply about the students who will use it. They’ll get to experience it all firsthand, cheering on the Bucs, spending time with the Pirate Parrot, and picking up a little knowledge along the way.
Educator Appreciation Games
The celebration doesn’t stop there. On Friday, May 29th and Sunday, May 31st, we’re thrilled to extend our partnership with the Pirates even further through two Educator Appreciation Days at PNC Park.
During the Friday game, we’ll take a moment to honor the educators who make our community stronger, including a special pre-game recognition of the winners from the 2025 Teacher Appreciation Awards. It’s a well-deserved spotlight for some truly remarkable educators making a difference.
Best of all, the event is open to everyone. Attendees will receive a complimentary lanyard along with a stipend to use toward food or Buccos merchandise. And with a portion of ticket sales being donated back to TEP, every ticket purchased helps us continue supporting the teachers and students at the heart of our mission.
Tickets are still available! If interested in attending, please click the link here. On Sunday, remember to stop by the 100.7 tent on Federal Street to support our summer event, Bazzy and Bubba’s Backpack Brigade!
Author: The TEP Team
