With the holidays around the corner, students at LCHS are starting their Christmas shopping. We often know the perfect gifts to buy for our family and friends, but what about gifts for our teachers? Teachers spend countless hours planning and preparing us for our futures, so instead of another “#1 teacher mug” or a classic apple, it’s time to think about what they truly appreciate.
For some teachers, success in their students is the best gift of all. While many people think of physical gifts during the holidays, not every teacher wants a present you can wrap or put a bow on. This year for Christmas, Mr. Stanley hopes for the success of his students and for them to have resilience.
“I would like for them to not give up when things get challenging. That’d be the greatest gift,” Stanley said.
Sometimes all they really need is some peace, quiet, and a break to recharge from their hectic classrooms, especially after months of constant activity. The school environment is always buzzing with conversations and questions. This year, that special moment of silence is at the top of Mrs. Reagan’s list.
“I would really like a nap. Just in peace and quiet,” Reagan said.
Hard work is oftentimes a greater gift than material items. Mr. Broekemeier wishes for his students to push themselves and put in effort, and get through this semester with a passing grade.
“I guess to put in the work to end the semester and pass. I guess that’s probably the number one thing,” Brokemeier said.
After a chaos-filled semester, sometimes all a teacher really needs is a good cup of coffee. This year, Mrs. Mullinax has one simple request to keep her going: Starbucks gift cards.
“Starbucks gift cards. Everybody can get me Starbucks,” Mullinax said.
Students use up a ton of supplies over the semester. Pencils disappear, and markers dry out, so anything that can help students keep the classroom together is a great gift for Mrs. Alexander.
“I like stuff that keeps my room running, like expos, pencils, erasers, anything kids can use,” Alexander said.
Teachers don’t always receive gifts, despite all they do for us. So even something homemade will brighten a teacher’s day. This year, Mrs. Wallace is happy with anything she can get; however, she does love some chocolate. Even small gestures help teachers feel appreciated and seen.
“Well, first of all, we are always happy if we get anything. Because high school teachers don’t often get gifts. It’s not like elementary school. So I am delighted when I even get a homemade card or a piece of candy or anything. I get very excited. But if I got to pick, I really like chocolate,” Wallace said.
Whether it’s Starbucks, school supplies, a card, chocolate, or turning your work in on time, showing appreciation to our teachers is important. So as the semester comes to an end, consider working a little harder, finishing your assignments, or just offering your teachers a simple “thank you” for all that they do.
