Each May, parents scramble to find the perfect way to thank their child’s teacher during Teacher Appreciation Week. Is it a heartfelt card? A gift card to Starbucks? A Pinterest-worthy DIY gift? While tokens of appreciation are always welcomed, many teachers say what they really want goes beyond the traditional presents. Four Pittsburgh-area educators share what truly makes them feel valued—and it’s not always something money can buy.
The Educators
• Jen Koerbel, K-3 reading specialist
26 years in education
• Christina “Chrissy” Magwood, early childhood educator
30 years in education
• Ally Niggel, first grade teacher
16 years in education
• Nicola Stuart, special education teacher for grades 5-8
13 years in education
What’s the most memorable (or funniest) teacher appreciation gift you’ve ever received?
Koerbel: A gift card for Wine and Spirits along with a wine glass that read, “After School Juice”
Magwood: I have been in education for 30 years. One year, I had a class of mostly boys. One of their moms gifted me with a candle that said, “Miss Chrissy’s Last Nerve – Oh, Look! It’s On Fire!” Funniest gift I ever received. Another year, I had a class and the parents each took a day and did something special for all of the teachers at the center. We all felt loved and appreciated.
Niggel: I have always felt the love during Teacher Appreciation Week and have been blessed with wonderful PTCs (parent teacher connection).
One memorable year, our PTC paid for a coffee truck to sit outside and take our orders.
Stuart: Most memorable would absolutely be the year they had a massage therapist
come to school. They had us sign up for 15-minute slots, and it was beyond amazing to be able to enjoy a massage in the middle of the workday.
If you could make a wish list of things that would truly make you feel appreciated, what would be on it?
Koerbel: A handwritten note from a student or parent would be the perfect gift. Time is very valuable, and many families are very busy. If a parent takes time out of their day to let you know that they appreciate what you do for their children, it is a blessing to receive it.
Magwood: If I could have a wish list for Teacher Appreciation Week, it would be teacher supplies. We don’t really make that much money, and most of the activities we do come out of our own pocket. It would be nice to receive a basket full of teacher supplies.
Niggel: Gift cards and cash!
Stuart: The most appreciated gifts are ones that come from the heart. They don’t have to be monetary either. A picture a student drew of something they know I love means the world. Little things for our classroom are always appreciated as well. A pack of our favorite pens, some notepads, etc. are also always thoughtful and useful! You can never go wrong with a small gift card as well.
What’s something parents or students do that makes you feel valued year-round, not just during Teacher Appreciation Week?
Koerbel: One time I was at a conference, and a parent of one of my former students was leading the session that I was attending. He asked me to stand up, and he introduced me to the group as one of his son’s first reading teachers. I was speechless and will always treasure that moment. He lost his son to violence and was giving a speech about turning tragedy into triumph. In his grief, he still found a way to spread kindness. Coincidentally, it was Teacher Appreciation Week.
Magwood: I really appreciate the cute cards the kids make me for no reason. That always melts my heart! Also, when I get a random treat, like an energy drink.
Niggel: Anytime parents or students show us respect! Thank-you emails and notes
are always appreciated.
Stuart: Acknowledging our hard work and how much we care about their student(s) goes a long way. I know those moments stick with me more than anything else. A simple thank you can make our day!
If you could trade all the mugs and gift cards for one big gesture of appreciation, what would it be?
Koerbel: That society would see that teachers truly love their students and want what’s best for them.
Niggel: Trusting your child’s teacher if we make a recommendation about your child’s education.
Now more than ever, teachers need meaningful recognition, not just during the month of May, but year-round. A heartfelt note, a simple act of kindness or structural support from schools and communities can make a world of difference in helping teachers feel seen, respected and motivated to keep doing this essential work. Thank you, teachers!
Carrie Woodard is a National Certified Counselor, National Certified School Counselor and a Pittsburgh mama of two.
