Potential Magazine april/may 2013 | Page 34

life skills tips & advice life skills resources gear up trends teacher gifts scholarships parent to parent YUM! A sweet or homemade treat is a great way to share your affection and appreciation for a favorite teacher. GIFTS PERSONALIZE IT Items including a monogram or initial add a special touch. that pass the test Best EVER “It’s a tie. Either the handknit scarf someone’s grandmother made for me because my student noticed I wear scarves a lot, or a pencil sketch of one of my dogs based on a photograph the girl snuck out of my classroom. I had it framed and it hangs in my home. I will always treasure it and think of the artist!” 34 A+ GIFT According to teachers, gift cards are always put to use. A few extra dollars to splurge at their favorite spot, restaurant gift cards or movie passes are sure to please. Go in with others to create a bouquet of cards from retail shops, restaurants and more. Image BY NIKKI P. PHOTOGRAPHY We asked teachers about the most standout gifts they’ve received over the years— some are thoughtful, others just plain bizarre. See which gifts made the grade! funniest “Pencils from a student who NEVER brought a pencil to class.” Full of thought “I got a popcorn container stuffed with ‘movie’ candy, a bag of microwave popcorn and a certificate for a free Redbox movie rental.” www.potentialmagazine.com Take Note Giving thanks isn’t about the money spent. A note of gratitude from you or your child is quite a treat itself. Alabama lawmakers passed a new statewide ethics law last May that states that a gift from an individual should cost less than $25 and should not exceed a total of $50 for a full calendar year.