Quote byStacey Gilroy, Arizona
I cherish a bronze bell my grandma gave to me my first year [of teaching], 30-plus years ago. It had belonged to her sister when she taught in a one-room schoolhouse in Oklahoma.
—Stacey Gilroy, Arizona
Quote byJanis Swanson, Washington
After teaching about [Native American environmental leader] Billy Frank Jr., a student who was a relative of his gave me a woven purse made by a member of the family.
—Janis Swanson, Washington
Quote byPam T.
A hand-knitted duck, made by my student Daniel.
—Pam T.
Quote byJean L.
I have a handmade ornament that says Times New Roman, double-spaced, 12-point font.
—Jean L.
Quote byMelanie Smeltz, Pennsylvania
My read-aloud books are treasures to me! (Her favorite book is Red & Lulu.)
—Melanie Smeltz, Pennsylvania
Quote byTamara Madden, Oregon
Where I live, most kids can’t afford a gift for a teacher, so when they bring me shiny rocks and little pebbles, I know it means they went out of their way to find something beautiful.
—Tamara Madden, Oregon
Quote byMarj Njaa, Washington
One of my all-time favorite notes came from a student after he went on to middle school.
—Marj Njaa, Washington
Take Action
Share This
We want to know what’s on your mind. We asked this question on NEA Today’s Facebook page and received so many great answers!
Get more from
We're here to help you succeed in your career, advocate for public school students, and stay up to date on the latest education news. Sign up to stay informed.