Nola Family May 2023

Teacher Appreciation Week: To Buy or Not to Buy

By Sarah Batrous

Teacher Appreciation Week can be a doozy for both teachers and students alike. It’s difficult to pick out a meaningful gift for someone who does so much for our children. Fret not, students and parents, because this guide will help you through it. High school teacher, Joy Holden, offers tips and advice to find the perfect gift. What to Buy I promise that finding the perfect gift to show your appreciation is not as difficult as it seems. Luckily, this is not “go big or go home” territory as many teachers just appreciate being appreciated. “I always advise parents to ask early in the year what are some favorites that teachers have so that you can personalize a gift for them. Honestly,

we want some positive recognition that we are appreciated, and that can be very small,” says Holden. “Gift cards to favorite places to eat/get coffee/bookstores/Target, greeting cards with a personal message, favorite treats (can be favorite candy or chips or snacks), cute mugs, sturdy water bottles, teacher stickers to go on water bottles/ computers, and tote bags are always appreciated.” As suggested, gift cards go a long way, but make sure they are “universal” like a prepaid Visa card or for a store where teachers can buy supplies or something cute for themselves. A favorite shop, restaurant, or even an online shopping hub like Amazon are all great gift card choices. In a similar vein, if your teacher is a parent, find out how old

their kids are and shop for a gift certificate to a fun experience like a trampoline park. Check your beginning-of-the-year supply list and pick a few items to buy from it. Teachers are often stuck purchasing replacement supplies for their students after they “disappear,” are used up, or unfortunately are broken. Lend a helping hand by replenishing the stockpile and maybe picking out something fun, too, like funky scented stickers or “good job” stamps. If you’re going the cup, mug, or wine glass route, exercise some caution. Not everything is dishwasher-safe or microwave-safe or even BPA- free. Before making your drinkware purchase, make your teacher’s quality of life better by checking the

18 MAY 2023 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

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