TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK

Every year in the United States we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week. Teacher Appreciation Week is always celebrated during the first full week of May.  And as the years have passed, it has become a bigger deal and, in my opinion, rightly so.  They deserve all the recognition possible. If it were up to me, teachers would be one of the highest paid professions.  

Personally, I have a special love and respect for teachers, as I believe, along with parents, they are an integral part of a child's development. A teacher can make a lasting impression on a child's life, whether it is Pre-K to high school and even into college.  

It takes a special kind of person to give up 7-8 hours of their day to deal with children that are not their own and make every effort to educate them and show them compassion, empathy and tolerance. There are those people who become teachers for a variety of reasons, like maybe for the summers off, or the health insurance, but I honestly believe that to remain a teacher, you have to have a heart full of unconditional love and a whole lot of patience! Teachers are one of the most necessary yet under-appreciated professions, in my opinion. This is why any chance I get, I welcome the opportunity to express gratitude for all the good teachers I had in my lifetime and for all the wonderful teachers my children had, as well as gratitude for all the teachers I know personally - thank you!

So, if you are a parent or guardian or simply want to express your gratitude for a teacher(s) - here are some gift ideas for them:

10 GIFT IDEAS FOR TEACHER APPRECIATION

 

1.Personalized Tote Bag - A sturdy tote bag with the teacher’s name or a motivational quote can be great for carrying books and supplies

2.Notebook or Journal or High-Quality Pens or Markers – A cute journal, planner or notebook is always useful, as well as a set of nice pens, markers, or colored pencils can brighten their day as they grade papers or create lesson plans.

3.**Gift Cards - Gift cards to a local fast-food restaurant, local coffee shops, Target, Walmart, local grocery store, bookstores, or office supply stores allow teachers to choose what they need most.

4.Desk Organizer - A stylish desk organizer can help keep their workspace tidy and efficient.

5.Personalized Notepad or Sticky Notes - Customized stationery is both practical and personal, making note-taking and reminders extra special.

6.Classroom Supplies Basket - Fill a basket (from Dollar General or similar store) with essential classroom supplies like dry-erase markers, sticky tack, or art supplies that teachers are always in need of.

7.Plants or Succulents - A small potted plant can brighten up their classroom or home and is easy to care for.

8.Coffee or Tea Gift Set - A curated selection of gourmet coffee or tea can provide a delightful pick-me-up during their busy days.

9.Inspirational Books - A book filled with inspiring quotes or teaching tips can motivate and encourage them in their profession.

10.Venmo or Zelle – even if this seems impersonal, I guarantee you a teacher will appreciate $5, 10, 20 dollars, rather than a picture frame or another coffee mug or gift that might not be as useful or meaningful.  Your $10 bucks might not seem like much but if others do the same, it adds up and will be greatly appreciated.

 

These gifts show appreciation while being practical for their day-to-day needs!" You can always make a collection of handwritten notes from students expressing gratitude and appreciation. This can be one of the most meaningful gifts they receive.  But remember, the key is to show them just how much you really appreciate them. 

** A gift card or cash with a little something personalized is always a great gift.

And a simple "thank you and show of gratitude to your child's teacher, teacher assistant or room coordinator is always appreciated.