My opinion is probably going to be unpopular with quite a few, but I no longer buy teacher gifts. I have 5 kids. I did give gifts when the first two were in elementary. I had a bad experience with a teacher expecting gifts and actually supplying a list to the kids of preferred items. I found this tacky and rude. Two of my five are just out of college and the other 3 span middle and high school. If a teacher goes above and beyond in helping my child I will send in a gift card and a note, but otherwise I do not give gifts for doing what they are paid to do. I do not get gifts for doing my job well, I get paid a salary. I take pride in my profession. It would be considered inappropriate to accept gifts. Thousands of people are without jobs, kids are going without food. There are many professions that are difficult and do not have great compensation, they do not expect gifts nor are allowed to accept them. I give to the school and help with supplies.
@landlady:
Why don't you spend a year teaching, then see if YOU wouldn't like a thank you card. I don't presume to know challenges of any other professions than what I have had. I've been in a war, a medical assistant, homemaker and teacher. I can tell you the most challenging was teaching. How dare you judge all teachers by a crappy one that gave you a list. I don't often get ticked on KDC, but I am passionate about education, give 110% when I am in a classroom and will NOT be disrespected, even on a message board.
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