Teacher Appreciation

It's the end of the year and here we are again trying to think of something special to give the teachers/coaches/instructors who have worked with our kids for 10 months. We are under some mild economical constraints, as well as hoping to convey our gratitude in a unique and memorable way.

One of the things to consider is expense. We have 8 or more people to recognize, including dance and TKD instructors, teachers, coaches, and learning assistants. We cannot afford to spend more than $10 on each gift, and still $80 is quite a hit at this time of year.

Another thing I consider is the thoughtful nature of the gift. I want the recipient to know that we appreciate their efforts, that we care about them, and thought about them specifically when choosing their gift.

So this year I made each of the teachers (and others) a card, and tucked inside each one was "An Interview" with the child in question. I had asked each child questions about their teacher and encouraged them to answer as best they could. The answers were cute, touching, and in some cases funny.


An example of one of the interviews:


An interview with Caylie:


What is your teacher’s name?
Caylie: Miss Anna


What is Miss Anna’s favourite colour?
Caylie: Black


What does Miss Anna “always” say?
Caylie: She always says she has to show us what to do.


What do you love about Miss Anna?
Caylie: She’s a nice teacher.


What is Miss Anna’s favourite thing to do?
Caylie: Teach us.


What does Miss Anna do when it’s not your school time?
Caylie: She gets the house ready.


What is Miss Anna’s favourite food?
Caylie: Salad.


What is one thing Miss Anna has taught you?
Caylie: I learned putting this wooden thing on the paper piece and blowing a straw with it.


When you grow up, what are you going to do that is like Miss Anna?
Caylie: Dress up pretty.


If Miss Anna were here right now, what would you say to her?
Caylie: She’s nice to me and I’m glad she’s here.


Do you have anything else to say about Miss Anna?
Caylie: I like to be with her.

The reviews of these interviews have been good so far. Madison says her teacher teared up while reading hers, and both of Caylie's teachers raved about this idea! I will definitely keep this as an option for future years.