Teacher Appreciation Month

By: Nancy Okuley, HOPE Toledo Professional Development and Support Specialist

May is Teacher Appreciation Month and, when I think of why people choose teaching as a profession, they choose it because it is their WHY and they want to make a difference for children and families. It is not a lucrative profession and it can be so time-consuming and frankly, exhausting. But teachers teach because they love children and they firmly believe that education is the vehicle to change the world for the better.

According to the National Education Association, 90% of teachers spend their own money on school supplies, averaging over $500 a year. 

Parents often want to show their appreciation to teachers in May and at the end of the year. Instead of buying that mug or gift card, here are some things teachers really want:

Classroom Supplies

Classroom supplies are gold to a teacher. Teachers are always thinking about how to better their classrooms. Many times, a ream of paper makes the biggest difference. Fresh school supplies can always be used and are always appreciated.  

Handwritten Letters

Some of my favorite gifts in my career have been handwritten letters from parents or children that are personal and authentic. These are keepsakes forever.

Follow Deadlines

This is the most practical way to show appreciation! The end of the year can be quite stressful for everyone and there is a lot to do to wrap up a school year and close out a classroom. It’s really important to watch the deadlines for when things are due and follow them. Just turning in what needs to be turned in on time makes a big difference.

Say Yes

If a teacher asks you to do something, say yes. Maybe it’s chaperoning a field trip, maybe it’s sending a snack for a picnic, maybe it’s coming in to cover a time period. Teachers know you are busy and they really appreciate it when you say yes.

Model Appreciation

Parents have a great opportunity to show their children how to appreciate people in their lives. By modeling speaking kindly about a teacher, to their face and at home, children learn how to use their words to say thank you in a variety of ways.

Here at HOPE Toledo, we so appreciate our teachers! We have seen how hard you work and strive every day to make sure the students are ready for kindergarten and competent individuals. HOPE Toledo continuously works to provide support and resources for teachers, including a summer symposium that will take place on July 18 at the Toledo Zoo. 

To learn more about HOPE Toledo, please visit hope-toledo.org.