Show us your Life: Best Teacher Gifts

As a teacher for the past 7 years, I've learned a lot about what makes a good teacher gift. 

I have a lot of Christmas ornaments that say best teacher ever, etc.  I could probably decorate an entire Christmas tree or at least a small tree! I would shy away from those. 

In fact, my favorite gift to receive from both students and parents...

My box of letters, cards, pictures and other mementos...

A letter thanking me for what I've done for them and/or their child.  It's even better when it's a letter adddressed to my principal.  My principal always copies it for us (if we weren't Cc'd) and then asks us if we want it for our personnal file!  I love opening this box when I've had a hard day at school! 

My second favorite gift to receive... gift cards!  I know many people think they are impersonal but they are greatly appreciated and I really love getting them.  And since I have a compulsion and can't not buy a book in a bookstore, I love when I get bookstore gift cards.  I usually buy books for my classroom and then a book for me!  So, it's a win-win!    I also recommend, Starbucks, Target, a Visa card, or a card to a local mall!