Modern
cynics and skeptics see no harm in paying those to whom they entrust
the minds of their children a smaller wage than is paid to those
to whom they entrust the care of their plumbing. ~
John F. Kennedy
Many of us
remember a teacher who taught, cajoled, or believed in us enough
to inspire a love of learning that lasted throughout our lives.
So what's
a good teacher worth? Show your appreciation by giving a teacher
something other than the usual pen set or coffee mug (they probably
already have a collection), but rather with a gift that shows
you've put time and effort into choosing something they will really
appreciate.
To inspire
you, here are great suggestions for teacher gifts to present during
back
to school, around the holidays, at the the end of the year,
Teacher
Appreciation Day, or anytime that you feel a teacher deserves
a special and heartfelt "thank you."
Make
it personal -
Despite the sometimes arduous emotional toll and long hours
on their feet, most teachers say they most appreciate a gesture
of appreciation from students, especially with something they've
made themselves. It might not seem like much, but a hand-crafted
card or simple thank you letter means the world to any teacher.
Consider adding your own personal note of thanks, as
well, with a copy mailed to the school principal.
Give
them a treat - Let them know they deserve special treatment
with a gift certificate for Starbucks or a local video rental
outlet. Or consider getting other parents together to chip
in for something really special — like a day at the spa, a four-star
restaurant, or tickets to a concert or sporting event. If funds are limited, how about whipping up a homemade Teacher's Day cake or batch of cookies?
Help
teachers teach - Many teachers think nothing of paying
out of pocket for school supplies they use in the classroom.
Help them out by presenting a gift basket of crayons, pens
and markers, a desk calendar, scissors, paper clips and other
items you think may come in handy, or give them a gift certificate
to an office supply store so that they can pick out items on their
own wish list.
Special honors - Arrange with other parents to show public support
with a luncheon or dinner in their honor and a special "Teacher
of the Year" trophy or certificate. For a truly outstanding
teacher, bowl them over with a nomination for US National
Teacher of the Year.
