I Just Learned the One Gift New York Teachers Hate Getting

I spent the majority of my winter vacation with an elementary school teacher... and I learned the most unexpected thing.

Teachers are one of the most valuable resources we have in New York State, and many parents like to show their appreciation during the holiday season. One gift, however, needs to stop.

Buying Gifts for new York Teachers

To be clear, this isn't meant to gift-shame anybody. Any token of appreciation goes a long way in showing your kid's teacher that you're thankful for the role they play in their lives. That being said...

What Gifts Should You Buy Local Teachers?

Gifts for teachers can be broken up into two categories: gifts you think a teacher will like, and gifts that they actually like. One gift, however, can be confusing. While it might seem like a totally logical idea, every teacher in your life is secretly praying you never give it to them.

The Worst Gift to Give Teachers

If you're a teacher, or are close to a teacher, then you already know the answer: travel mugs. While these items have been very popular in recent years (remember 2024's Stanley craze?), there are a few reasons why you should never buy one for a teacher.

The biggest reason not to buy a travel mug for a teacher is that unfortunately, the idea isn't unique. Even if you think you found the perfect mug, so did many other families. The teacher in our life came home with seven different mugs on the last day of school before holiday break. So what should you buy?

Gifts That Teachers Actually Enjoy

To be clear, a gift is never necessary, but if you'd like to show appreciation for the teacher in your life, their are a few easy routes to take. Instead of a mug, how about a bag of coffee beans to put in their mug? Gift cards are hugely appreciated as well, but that's not all...

Cliché or not, the best things in life aren't things, and for the teacher in our life, the most appreciated holiday gifts were actually the handwritten cards their students wrote to them. So the next time you're looking to show appreciation, skip the mug. Your favorite educator will thank you.