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[Hilary]

Do you give your child's teachers gifts at the end of the year? If so, what kinds of things do you usually give? Share your best ideas! And teachers, we'd like to hear from you -- what kind of gifts are your favorite?

[Mrs.Schenk]

I have received many gifts over the years!  I am always honored that families have taken time from their lives, and finances to show their gratitude in the form of an end of year gift. (or valentines, or Christmas, or even birthday!)  The most meaningful gifts, however, have been from the children who picked a flower on the way to school, or brought me a beautiful leaf, or a stick (the children know I have a love of sticks)... The letters and and hand written notes that I have received from parents have also held a very special place in my heart. 

Great question of the week!

[agregoire]

I do!
This year both children are making note cards for their teachers.  I got a great deal on Vista Print (OMG they always have great deals!) on personalized notecards and then we took their thumbs and ink pads and made caterpillars.
I am planning on a gift card of some sort to go with it.
I am making "movie" packages for the teacher's aides.  Some candy, some popcorn and a blockbuster (or such - I wonder if I can get Red Box gift cards?) and 2 movie tickets.  The bus drivers (only my daughter's since my son is on the 4th driver of the year) got movie gift cards.

[mewtsd]

yes, we do a gift every year. Sometimes I am able to find out a restuarant or store the teacher loves and do a small gift certificate from there. Sometimes I get fancy hand sanitizing hand creams (so the teachers can stay healthy too and not have to use that drying hand sanitizer all the time)  Sometimes my sons have something special in mind (a box of chocolates for a teacher they know loves sweets).  Other years, I baked cookies.  Most of all, I just try to write a card (and have the kids do the same) letting the teacher know how much we appreciate what they do for us on a daily basis. I'd love to do MORE but I think teachers have appreciated just being recognized for their hard work.

[zsmar]

I like to collect money from all the families to buy a joint gift (it is easy to organize in a small class, this year we have 10), such as movie and dinner for two at the Little, or a gift certificate to Abundance. The children usually make something together- a scarf with handprints, or a poem about their teacher. For therapists and other staff that have contributed a lot during the school year, I have been getting Hedonist chocolate from the South Wedge.