Teachers Tell All: End-of-Year Gifts They Really Want

Posted May 14, 2009

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What gifts do teachers really appreciate?

Posted Thursday, May 14, 2009 by Jackie Morgan MacDougall

You can always tell when the school year is winding down - jackets can be found curled up on the car floor, refused by little ones, attention spans seem to get shorter as the days get longer, and perfect moms everywhere start shopping for the ultimate teacher gift.

If you are one of those moms, you may want to stop reading now.

(OK, are they gone?)

Teacher gifts are like the school version of birthday parties. The number of recipients - teachers, assistant teachers, directors, recess monitors, etc -- has gotten out of control. Even the smallest gifts add up quickly. Add multiple kids and out-of-work parents facing tough times, and it really becomes an issue.

If you're anything like me, these are your basic questions:

1. What can I get my children's teachers that they will really like, feeling my sincere appreciation?

2. How can I achieve my goal without spending too much cash, having to forego other things - like feeding my kids?

I solicited the very honest opinions of five of my favorite teachers. Not only did I find out what they like, I got a very direct answer when asked what to avoid.

Five out of five said that while trinkets, knick knacks, and apple-themed décor can be cute, after a few years of teaching, there's no place for them. And if you got the idea to get your favorite teacher a mug, think about how many moms before you had the same idea. You may want to buy them a trash can because, unfortunately, your well-intentioned gift will have to be tossed at some point.

They all were very sensitive to those who have multiple kids in the school system and said it's not the price tag that matters to them. In fact, all five were happy to receive a gift card - in any amount - to any number of places including restaurants, coffee shops and bookstores.

A recently retired teacher of over 40 years said she has really enjoyed receiving something she can grow at home. "I've gotten a couple of boxes of pansies, perennials, or inexpensive plants that I was able to bring home and enjoy." An avid knitter, she's also received a knitting bag. "If you know a hobby the teacher has, that's always a nice gesture."

A young high school teacher I talked to loves when the student is involved with choosing the gift. "One boy picked out a scent at Bath and Bodyworks, that was cute. And when one student was in Florida over break, she got me an inexpensive necklace. I love that she thought of me over vacation. Often I receive something that has nothing to do with the kid, wrapped nice. It feels like I was just being crossed off a list."

While most agree they like something personal that's not for their classroom, a longtime preschool teacher loves to receive gift certificates to Barnes and Noble or Borders. "I always have books to replace in my classroom after years of wear and tear. It's nice to get new ones without spending my own money. And, if there's any left over, I get myself a summer reading book."

The teachers all added that it's important not to get sucked into the competition that can sometimes accompany teacher gifts. In fact, expensive presents can actually create an awkward and uncomfortable situation.

In Massachusetts, the state's Conflict of Interest Law (Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 268A) states that school employees may not accept any gift that is of "substantial" value, that is, no more than $50. This $50 limit applies to groups of people with a common interest (for example, members of the same class). Therefore, families in the same class may not combine their resources to purchase a gift valued at $50 or more.

This law was enacted to ensure that members of the public are treated equally and that no one has or might be perceived to have special advantages or influence. This applies even if the purpose of the gift is seen as a token of gratitude for a job well-done.

Let's talk: Do you think there should be a cap on teacher gifts? Post your comment below!

Jackie Morgan MacDougall, on the never-ending quest for balance, enjoys life in Los Angeles with her husband, Jeff, and their three small kids.

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More Great Gifts for Teachers

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Teachers Tell All: End-of-Year Gifts They Really Want

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