7 Best Gifts for Teachers for Teacher Appreciation Week

Besides you — and maybe including you — who spends the most time with your children? The answer is likely their teachers.

Educators put in long days working to shape the next generation, spending far more time at their jobs than just the hours between the morning and afternoon bells. The best ones can make an immeasurable impact on the lives of their students, and their hard work deserves to be acknowledged.

The perfect time to show these instructors how much you appreciate them and their efforts is during Teacher Appreciation Week, which this year is May 6-10.

Here is a curated list of the most meaningful gift options for teachers, taken from the advice of educators themselves.

1. Brighten their day with a floral bouquet

Nothing freshens up a school desk — or any workspace — better than a bouquet of fresh flowers. Choose an early spring variety, such as tulips, to match the season, or opt for a green plant that can serve as a reminder of your gratitude for years to come.

2. Make education easier with classroom supplies

Teachers face many challenges, one of which is a lack of basic classroom supplies. “In many underfunded districts, teachers have to purchase classroom supplies out of their own pockets," explains Sarah Marier, a high school social studies teacher. “A great idea for Teacher Appreciation Week would be to ask for a wish list from your teacher and request donations on their behalf, or give them a gift card to purchase supplies they need."

3. Provide an opportunity for midday pampering

A little planning can go a long way toward making teachers feel appreciated. If you work in the school system, consider setting up some midday pampering during Teacher Appreciation Week.

“The school or PTA/PTO can show appreciation for teachers by treating them to one or two special lunches throughout Teacher Appreciation Week," says Melissa Jones, who has been a teacher for more than two decades. "One year, the parent volunteers set up a smoothie and relaxation lounge where we could go and customize a smoothie and then get a 15-minute chair massage from a professional they hired. It was a wonderful treat and gave us an extra energy boost."

If arranging for mid-day relaxation isn't feasible, a spa day gift box makes for a thoughtful substitute.

4. Give meaningful gift cards

Avoid the struggle of figuring out exactly what teachers want by going the gift card route. Not only does this let each educator choose their present, but it still allows you some room for creativity.

Alex Beene, a high school teacher in Nashville, will never forget one student's token of appreciation that came in gift card form.

“I received a gift card to Starbucks for $32 with a card attached. The note explained that the reason the gift card amount was '32' was because the student had scored a 32 on her ACT (good for the 97th percentile) and was so thankful for my help in getting there," Beene says. "I was overwhelmed; I don't think students realize how special gifts are when they celebrate the education behind them."

5. Share something just for them

Bring a smile to your favorite teacher's face every day with a personalized gift they can keep on their desk. Choose something practical — a pencil holder, paper note cube, or coffee tumbler with their name on it — or go for something unique, such as this teacher-themed gift box that comes with a frame, handmade soap, candle, and artificial succulent.

6. Gift some sweet treats

Dealing with rowdy students every day requires a lot of energy, so make sure your favorite teacher has a few treats on hand whenever they need an energy boost. Choose from boxes of gourmet cookies or specialty chocolates to show your appreciation. Themed gift baskets of baked goods or sweet and salty selections are always welcome, especially when there's enough to share with the whole family.

You can even play off the "apple for the teacher" trope with an orchard-themed gift basket filled with fresh apples, roasted nuts, and dried fruit.

7. Present personalized notes

Sometimes, the simplest gifts have the most meaning. Teachers will forever treasure a heartfelt card that expresses your appreciation.

“The best gifts I've received for Teacher Appreciation Week are cards with thoughtful notes in them," says Elizabeth Manly, an elementary school teacher. “I've saved all the cards I received throughout the years that tell me specifically why the parents appreciate me or why they've enjoyed having their child in my class. A thank you is nice, but a more meaningful note brightens my week."

Great gifts for teachers 

Any teacher would appreciate a lovely basket of flowers to dress up the classroom or bring home and enjoy. Our Teacher Appreciation collection features colorful arrangements and blooms that are perfect for showing teachers how important they are in their student’s lives, plus some unique gifts to make them feel truly special. 

Thank You Assorted Roses

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Simply Chocolate® You're Amazing Personalized Box

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Teaching Touches Lives Personalized Crystal Apple Keepsake

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