Traditional Gifts

• Stereotypical apples of any material, bookworms, plaques, trophies and statues, mugs, and knickknacks tend to drown a teacher over time. Even a new teacher most likely lives in a small apartment or house and has little space for this thoughtful clutter. Gift bearers should consider this reality in selecting teacher gifts.
  
  

Conflict of Interest

• School systems often establish conflict-of-interest laws regarding gifts to employees, including teachers. New York City's Department of Education has instituted a "valuable gifts" rule whereby employees are prohibited from receiving gifts with a monetary value above $50 from any one person. This monetary cap includes cash, concert tickets, sporting events and gifts. The policy states that gifts from students or their parents should never be of more than minimal cash value, and teachers should refrain from accepting cash gifts of any type. When a class contributes to a gift, they should specify that the gift comes from the entire class and not from individual students. Parental contributions, too, should be minimal amounts. Gift giving should fall within local regulations.
  
  

Frequent Gifts

• A 2010 British Broadcasting survey of teachers and their thoughts on gifts from students revealed that gifts have become competitive in some instances, ranging from Tiffany jewelry to expensive handbags. However, most teachers receive plants, homemade and purchased food items, gift cards, cash, trinkets, picture frames and items marketed as teacher gifts. The most popular teacher gift item was chocolates, according to the survey. Teachers also reported receiving used and regifted items.
  
  

Gifts from the Heart

• Most teachers consider gifts that come from the heart the best gifts of all. Handwritten notes from parents and students, booklets with student photos and simple letters of appreciation are their most cherished gifts. Teachers, who often spend their own money for class supplies, appreciate gift cards and funds designated to purchase art supplies and extras not in the school's budget. Teachers love their students, and the best gifts of all are those that help their students.
  
  

Expert Insight

• Parents, teachers and students must balance the policies of their school systems, established traditions within the community and their personal ethics when it comes to giving teacher gifts. They should consider the financial situation of other families in the class as well. Gifts should never be subtle bribes or payment. They should come from the heart and express genuine appreciation.