Check out holiday gift ideas for teachers

By Metro Creative Services

Like the rush of students at the afternoon bell, the sight of a student bringing a gift to a teacher is a perennial scholastic scene. But all too often these gifts end up in their basement or the garbage can in the teachers’ lounge.

Erica Stavis, a 25-year-old middle school teacher in New York City, has received an assortment of gifts each holiday season, including make-up kits and candles. Recently, she received something she described as a “snowball dolphin blue thing with a mini surfboard on it” that had “Myrtle Beach” printed on it. Stavis says that while she appreciated the sentiment, the gift was just “really funny” instead of being meaningful.

Experts suggest parents and students put extra thought into the gifts they give teachers to express their gratitude for a half-year well-done. Here are some suggestions:

From the student

Just like cards, a handmade gift from younger kids can go over well. Try baking cookies or making a popsicle stick picture frame with a picture of the student or class. Sometimes, a class will get together and compile a photo album of themselves. Or for the more culinary-inclined students, a recipe book could be a welcomed asset to the teacher’s kitchen.

Wear it

Some gifts for teachers are perfect for wearing in the classroom. What is better attire for male teachers than neckties with patterns featuring school books or crayons? Or for the female teacher who likes to accessorize, check out scarves with similar patterns.