Comments on: Teacher, Teacher, what do you see?

By: Writing Teacher

Writing Teacher — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 06:21:59 +0000

Great question and great answer! A note expressing a positive effect is so powerful for a teacher. If it is written by the child the teacher knows the child was involved. If it is written by the parent, the teacher knows the parent values their effort. Written by both child and parent… needless to say, a nice combination. That being said, a small thing of quality that the teacher will like is better than a big thing for which you aren’t sure of. A good candy bar that the teacher will eat is better than a great big box of chocolates left over from last year. Thanks for thinking of us!

By: Kristy

Kristy — Tue, 15 May 2007 17:02:01 +0000

I am also a teacher. I completely agree with the others. A sincere thank you note is wonderful. Lisa is right. Most of the time when we hear from a parent they’re unhappy. Hearing a kind word really brightens my day.

If you feel you must give something, personally, I would love a supply of pencils. Tie them with a pretty bow and I’d be thrilled. Another gift I’ve appreciated over the years is a $5 Starbucks gift card. I won’t usually spend the money to get myself something there, but with that gift card, I can treat myself.

But really, you don’t have to buy anything. We don’t think less of the kids or parents who don’t bring a gift.

By: amy

amy — Mon, 14 May 2007 20:44:28 +0000

wanted to weigh in on this one as my mom has been an elementary school teacher for over 20 years. you wouldn’t believe all the garbage she gets as gifts! she has often said how she would prefer supplies for the classroom. give a book to the classroom in your child’s name–or ask the teacher what supplies are needed. she will LOVE you for buying something useful and not getting another apple mug!

By: Miriam

Miriam — Mon, 14 May 2007 17:24:03 +0000

I just found your blog via Like Merchant Ships.

I must second your response. As a former teacher, sincere notes of thanks were always wonderful to receive. And you’re right, teachers get a lot of knick-knacks and clutter. One of my favorite things to get as a teacher was lunch from a local restaurant. That was such a treat and much better than my turkey sandwich! Even Chick Fil A was a welcome surprise.

By: Lisa

Lisa — Mon, 14 May 2007 05:01:07 +0000

I am a middle school teacher, and this year I received one of the best teacher appreciation gifts I have ever received: a car wash. Our PTA organized a car wash for the teachers and recruited students to do the washing. Was it the best car wash I’ve ever received? Of course not, but I truly felt appreciated.

If you are unable to donate your time in such a way, Heather is right, a handwritten note goes a long way. A significant amount of the time that teachers spend with parents is spent with parents who have complaints about how their children are taught. A note of thanks is always a breath of fresh air!