articles

5 Ways to Show Your Appreciation to Teachers

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 3-7

By Shannon Trelease April 28, 2021

Teachers have been asked to do so much since the pandemic started — learning to teach virtually practically overnight, working hard to keep our children on track, and working more closely with parents than ever before. How can we ever thank them for helping us through? 

Heartfelt and thoughtful gifts feel like the way to go this National Teacher Appreciation Week, May 3-7.

Here are five simple ideas to show your appreciation for your child's teacher:

1. A thank-you note

Teachers love to hear what your child has to say from their heart. Here's a fun printable to make it easy for your child to write a letter. You can write one too. Go one step further and write one to the principal too, explaining why you believe your child's teacher is exceptional. Use specific examples of how the teacher has influenced your child’s learning.

2. A gift card to a local restaurant or coffee shop

A gift card is always a great gift! Especially if it's wrapped in a cute mug or travel container! You can find cute stuff at your local Dollar Store! 

3. Items for their classrooms

Whiteboard markers, erasers, scissors, pencils, sharpeners, decorative pieces, hand soap, sanitizer … all will be appreciated. Ask your teacher for a wish list or check Amazon to see if one is already started there! Teachers often spend their own money on school supplies, so this is an opportunity to help them in a practical way that they'll appreciate.

4. Contact Your PTA/PTO 

Most schools have a local PTA/PTO! See if they are celebrating teachers in anyway? Then spread the word to other families on how they can get involved to celebrate these super heroes!

5. A beach bag

Summer break is near, so it's the perfect time to prepare for the beach! Get a nice beach towel, some sunblock, flip flops and a good book and put them in a beach bag! These items will surely get put to use and offer a nice twist to the usual teacher appreciation gifts.

Thank you to all the teachers, staff, and administration!!