Posts
It is that time of year again when the students start to ask, "what is your favorite store" and "where do you like to eat". I work in a very fortunate school where almost all students present me with a present and a generous one at that. The giftcards are always plentiful. Now, having had worked in schools that were not as fortunate as the one I am in now, I realize that family struggle and can not afford a present for their teacher.
Whenever a student asks me what I want, I always respond - "make me a card". I give them paper and tell them that, that means more to me and that I can always hold on to it and remember them. No one feels left out because they can or can not afford a gift for me. At the end of the day, I dont want presents from my students. It is always nice to get a gift unexpectedly but it should not be expected. Some teachers I know get nothing and some get more than they need. It just goes to show you that there is economic divisions between schools and families.
Hi Amanda! I took the same poll and made a posting about this topic. The gift cards have already started to roll in this year! I try to use some of the "free money" to buy stuff for my classroom or buy things for others. Sure, we shouldn't expect anything but if families want to thank us with a little gift I think that's okay. :) The only thing that get sticky at my school is when a student buys one teacher a gift and not another (middle school). I try to not talk about gifts unless some asks. Enjoy the holidays.
ReplyDelete