Why Are Teachers and Educators Important?

There are so many ways we can show teachers appreciation. In our rocky political and social climate, it’s more important than ever that we do.

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I’m not sure where you live, but if you’re anywhere around Oklahoma, you know we are having an education crisis. The budgets are low. Not only are they not paid well, many teachers are now, or have been, paying for all their student’s supplies. This is especially the case in low-income areas where students can’t afford their own supplies. School are closing and students are being relocated to other schools, teachers are losing their jobs left and right. Those that aren’t let go, willing move to other states for better pay and treatment.

This is how we’re treating those who are helping the future of the US. Without them, our children will have no way to be educated. Their hope for a better future is over. In some cases, teachers might be the only positive role model in a child’s life.

It’s not just baby-sitting or putting kids in front of a TV. They’re in charge of helping our future leaders and community grow into who they need to be, to keep us moving in forward. Instead of giving them the tools they need, we expect them to do more with less. Less support, more students to a class. Less money, more supplies for their students. All this is before we even get to the parents.

Parents increasingly encourage their kids to excel. When challenges arise, rather than placing blame, they support the teachers in fostering a positive environment. Teachers often use custom medals to recognize every student’s participation, celebrating their efforts and achievements. These custom medals serve as a meaningful symbol of encouragement, helping to motivate and uplift students while reinforcing the supportive role of educators.

Teacher Appreciation Ideas

There has to be change. We have to show teachers appreciation before it’s too late. Teacher’s don’t dedicate their lives to the students for praise, but in the current climate, it’s hard to keep going when you don’t have the tools or support to do your work. Until the politicians show up to do the right thing, it’s up to our communities to let them know we do appreciate them. Here is a list of things to show your teachers appreciation.

1. Start small and just tell them you appreciate all they do. It’s free, takes 5 seconds and can really have a lasting impact, but so few people ever make the effort.
2. Give them a gift card. Talk with them for a few minutes, find out their favorite places are to eat, shop or relax then get them a gift card.
3. Bring them favorite snack. Involve your kids in this teachers appreciation activity and ask your children to pay attention to what their teacher likes. Keep them stocked from time to time.
4. Know their birthday. This is a great day to show your teachers appreciation. Give them a cake, have the class sing them happy birthday or get them a special gift. For inspiration, check out these 101 teacher appreciation ideas in a jar. These are quick and easy ways to show you care.
5. A teacher’s school day doesn’t end after the bell. There’s often many things they do at home or in the classroom to help get ready for the next day. Stay late and help them get organized for next day.  Offer to help straighten their room, empty trash, make copies, etc.
6. Volunteer to cover a duty. This is a fabulous way for parents to show teachers appreciation. Ask the principal first if it is okay.
7. Make sure your children are great students. Sometimes this is the best way to say thank you. Teachers appreciate students who are never in trouble, enjoy being at school, and who are genuinely excited to learn. If your student isn’t on this list, listen to the teacher and their concerns.Make an effort to help your student respect them and make the changes in order to have a better future.
8. Buy them a Christmas present. It does not have to be something elegant or expensive. Your teacher will appreciate anything that you get them. For inspiration, check out these 52 Teacher Appreciation ideas that can be made in less than 15 minutes.
9. Give an extra hand. This is another free way to show your teachers appreciation. Most teachers will appreciate the extra help. Ask them where they need help and let them know that you are willing to help. Lower elementary teachers will especially appreciate this help.
10. Contact them when they are sick. Check on them and ask if they need anything. It’s a great way to show you care.
11. Post on Facebook. If your child’s teacher has a Facebook account, let them know how much you appreciate all that they do.
12. Be supportive as a parent. Knowing you have tremendous parental support makes a teacher’s job easier. Backing their decisions is an excellent way to show your appreciation.
13. In Oklahoma, many teachers are struggling to make ends meet, but especially in high-poverty areas, they are responsible for all their student’s supplies, since the students can’t afford their own. A great way to show appreciation to the teachers in your community, especially in areas with a high poverty rates is to donate money towards their classroom. Give them some money or extra supplies to help ease this burden.
14. Make a Teacher Appreciation Gift Basket. A couple of months ago, I had a giveaway. Anyone who told me about a teacher who changed their life, entered that teacher for a chance to win a gift basket. There is many options for gift basket ideas. In my basket, I included luffas. Also, a gift card and reusable cup to Starbucks, nail care products similar to Glitterbels, chocolates, lavender candles, and homemade cookies. I also created these Free Teacher Appreciation Printables for any mason jar gifts and attached those.

Best Teacher Appreciation Gifts

If you’re looking for a more specific list of teacher appreciation gifts, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite ideas.

Coffee

Who doesn’t love a warm cup of coffee, especially on a rough morning? Teachers are no different. Take note of what they typically drink in the morning or their favorite kind of coffee, so they can start their day off right!

Chocolate

Chocolate is another popular favorite, especially on those rough days. Talking with your child’s teacher is a great way to know their favorite treats.

Gift Certificates for Pampering, Experiences, Restaurants, Amazon

Gift certificates for your teachers favorite place such as the movies, nail salon, restaurant or even Amazon! These give teachers a guilt free way to enjoy themselves and relax for a bit.

Pastries

Pastries are a yummy way to show your favorite teacher how much you care!

Apples

If your child’s teacher happens to be on a diet, you can bring apples or other healthier snack options, such nuts, seeds, fruit cups. It’s just a little extra something to let them know they’re appreciated.

School Supplies

Depending on the school district, many teachers might be required to buy their own school supplies. Buying supplies for 20-30 students can rack up quick. Take note of the common school supplies needed, and you can also ask if your teachers has a donorschoose.org account. Teachers can asked for financing a classroom project, and you can give as little as $1 toward that project. They’re a public charity, so your donation is tax-deductible.

Jewelry and Fashion Accessories

Bring a little extra sparkle to your teacher’s eye with an extra special piece of jewelry or fashion accessories like these unique garnet rings custom made in Brisbane.

Handmade Cards from their students

There’s nothing more special than a handmade card from your present or even former students. These are an inexpensive way to make your teachers feel extra special.

Change for vending machine

A little treat now and again from the vending machine can give teacher’s something to look forward to. It doesn’t cost much, but it’s just a little something to make them feel special.

Books

A good book is enough to take the stress of the day away. Talk with your teacher and find out their favorite author, or maybe favorite series, then maybe get them a new book.

Teachers Appreciation Week

Teachers Appreciation week is May 7 through May 11. Tell your teacher’s how much you appreciate them!

Want to see more school-related posts to get you in the Back to School spirit? Check out these blog posts.

How to Prepare for Dorm Living– Home Again Jiggety-Jig

What to Expect During Your Child’s First Year of School– Little Sprouts Learning Garden

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