What were some of your favorite gifts from coworkers, admin, or students? I want to give out some gifts at work, but I know some may not want stationary, pens, etc.
I am retired now, but I still have a few plants around that came from students. I especially liked receiving blooming bulbs. I could toss them outside and they would miraculously start to grow when it rained. I have an area of bulbs that came from students.
I have an amaryllis bulb from maybe 20 years ago that still blooms annually. The mother said that she had many teachers in her family and knew what teachers liked. I also have a lavender plant and a living Christmas tree.
I love pens, markers, "fancy" school supplies like shaped post-it notes or cute tape, good chocolate, hard candies, gift cards, candles, hmmm... I appreciate just being remembered...
The only complaints I've ever heard are coffee cups/mugs, cheap chocolate, or homemade food.
I would like to think most teachers would be appreciative of anything they received but I have seen some... Once, at the end of the year, I had to walk some things to my car and I was parked by the dumpster. I saw a young teacher who had two big boxes of assorted gifts. I thought she was walking them to her vehicle as well. Nope--straight to the dumpster... multiple stationary sets, recipe box, candies, hankies, vases, bracelets, EVERYTHING went into the dumpster along with the box.. When I walked out again at the end of the day, everything was still there with nothing on top or nearby so I put the boxes in my truck instead.
As a SpEd teacher that gets very few items, I was so confused. I thought that was very disrespectful and wasteful. I got it home and made sure nothing was personalized--found a few hidden gems ($20 GC to Subway, $10 GC to a local coffee shop, a little silver ornament thing.) For the next several years, anytime I needed a quick gift or a pick me up for my para, etc. I pull something from that stash. It serve me well.
I will never understand her thought process--some were from her colleagues--why not throw it away at home...
One of my students made a monetary donation to an organization I am involved with (came up during conferences). Another donated to our school’s educational foundation in my name. I always thought those were special gifts, and 2 that I will always remember.
Your ideas and stories were helpful. I can't believe someone would throw a box of gifts away, but at the same time I understand not wanting more things.
Personally, I love gift cards the best. Now, at home from my ow parents/family members it's different, but at school, gift cards are the best. Easy to carry home when you get a lot of gifts!
As much as I love food gifts, I get that so much, it makes me feel fat!
Gift Certificates
Homemade Cookies with Hershey Kisses put loose in a Christmas Box
Hand Lotion
Flowery Tape Dispenser/Stapler
Key Ring
Poinsettia Plant
I especially liked cards that said a donation was made in my name to a homeless shelter, Salvation Army, our local Cheer fund, etc. I really didn't need chocolate, mugs or candles so it was heart warming to know those in need were gifted in my name.
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11-23-2020, 09:55 AM
) gift cards.
