Mind if I take a quick survey?

[teacherintexas]

Originally Posted by FarFromHome

I think if you were going to do this, approaching the parent organization would be best. Most teachers would not be comfortable sending home information about gifts for themself.

Exactly.

I would just choose not to participate.

[msmullenjr]

Originally Posted by czacza

I would NEVER participate in such a program. I think it's tacky.

Agreed.

I wouldn't want the kids or parents to think they should tip me for good service. The best gifts I've gotten were the ones that showed that the kid thought of me. Parents wouldn't have known to get me "that" item. One example is the 89 cent Wonder Woman tumbler from Walmart. That kid knew me well enough to see something that would make me smile.

[yellowdaisies]

I wouldn't participate in that program either. I would NEVER ask my students' families for gifts or donations. I teach in a low income area and nearly 90% of our students are on free or reduced lunch. No way would I ever ask them for something like that.

My favorite gifts from students are their hand drawn cards and letters. I also just love anything they are excited to give me. Where I teach, there aren't going to be big giftcards and expensive gifts, and that's just fine with me.