Well….I went to THE source and asked.
My dear friend, Shelly, who blogs at My Coupon Teacher is also a full-time teacher. (How she does both is beyond me!) And she sent me these great ideas.
First of all, let me say that gifts are appreciated but not necessary for teachers. If you cannot afford a teacher gift, show your appreciation with words or time. Handwritten notes and cards are very touching gifts.
Gifts Teachers Need:
- Gift cards to Office Supply Stores
- Office Supplies (like Post-its, etc.)
- Personalized Labels
- Anything for the classroom
Gifts Teachers Want:
- Small gift cards to grocery stores or restaurants ($5 to Starbucks is great!)
- Books or book gift cards
- Notes from parents or students (can be used in evaluations)
Gifts Most Teachers Don’t Need:
- Candy
- Holiday Mugs
- Homemade snacks and goodies (Although you mean well, these often don’t get eaten.)
- Little doodads
Remember, a nice card or note is wonderful. Don’t go over budget to show your appreciation!
Shelly is a full-time fourth grade teacher and blogs at Coupon Teacher. She wants you to share and celebrate your successes with her, and she may give you a few tips along the way!
GREAT post Kelly! Thanks!
The centerpiece of our teacher gift this year is a VistaPrint pen that says, “This is Mrs. King’s Pen”. I know pens can walk off and I thought it was a fun (and free) way to help. DH has managed to keep his pen like that for 5 years.