Hello, my FresYes friends!
It’s that time once again — school’s winding down, and you might be wondering what to get the amazing educators who’ve poured their energy into your kids all year. As someone who loves our local teachers and wants to help you avoid gifting another “Best Teacher Ever” mug (we’ll talk about that later), I’ve got some helpful advice.
For years now, I’ve surveyed teachers on what end-of-year gifts truly mean something, and what tends to pile up in a closet. First, let me say this: the overwhelming message from every teacher I’ve heard from is that they appreciate any gesture. Truly. Gifts aren’t expected, but they are appreciated. That said, there’s one gift that comes up as the most cherished over and over again, and it doesn’t cost a dime.
The #1 most loved teacher gift?
A heartfelt, handwritten card or note from the student and/or parent. That’s it. A simple “thank you” especially if it includes a few personal details or moments from the year that stood out means the world to most educators. Many say they keep these notes for years and re-read them when they need encouragement on a hard day. It’s thoughtful, timeless, and always appreciated.
Now, if you’re looking to add a little something extra or you just love gift-giving, there’s a strong runner-up…
The second-most appreciated gift? A gift card.
Gift cards are especially helpful because so many teachers spend a significant amount of their own money on classroom supplies throughout the year. If you’re not quite sure what your child’s teacher likes, you really can’t go wrong with:
- Target – for both classroom and personal use
- Walmart – especially helpful for stocking up on classroom essentials
- Amazon – useful for just about anything
These are always safe bets. But, if you do know a little more about your teacher’s tastes or if you want to support local businesses in your gifting (which we always love to do at FresYes) here are some more personalized gift card ideas:
For the Foodie
If your child’s teacher is a known foodie or just appreciates a really good meal after a long day (honestly, who doesn’t?), here are a few standout spots:
- Heirloom (NE Fresno): A versatile choice with something for everyone from picky eaters (chicken tenders and fried rice anyone?) to gourmet palates. They have an easy pickup window for online orders, and yes, if your teacher wants to treat themselves to a craft cocktail after work, they’ve got that covered too.
- Annesso (NE Fresno): Their wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza is next-level, but don’t sleep on the cold and crisp spicy Caesar salad or the parmesan fries piled high with super finely grated fluffy parm and drizzled with Fresno chili oil. Also great for dining in or grabbing on the go with their own pickup window.
- Libelula (Downtown): A go-to for teachers with adventurous tastebuds. The menu changes seasonally, and the dishes are always creative and packed with flavor.
- Bonus: If your teacher loves to cook, a Trader Joe’s gift card is never a bad idea — there’s always something new to try, and season ingredients that are beloved by many. Summer offerings are among their best!
For the Pinterest Classroom Teacher
You know the one with cute bulletin boards, twinkle lights, matching bins, all the vibes. They likely enjoy shopping for their space (and probably yours too). Try:
- Let Me Take a Look Boutique: Think adorable stationery, plants, home decor, and little things that spark joy.
- Shoppe at the Avenue: Perfect for the teacher who loves modern farmhouse or rustic chic. Boujie scented candles, beautiful florals, handmade jewelry, and the kinds of kitchen goods that make summer hosting (for their fellow teacher friends, sans students perhaps?) extra lovely.
- Bonus: Anthropologie and World Market are also great bets for those who appreciate curated aesthetics and cozy spaces.
For the Sports Fan or Coach
If your child’s teacher is also a coach or big into sports, check out:
- JR Sports, Mossette’s, or Bases Loaded: Great for local sports gear and collectibles that feel personal and make their desk or home bring a smile.
- Dick’s Sporting Goods: A reliable pick for a comfortable new sweat wicking pair of shorts or a hat for teaching PE, or some new equipment to enjoy on the field.
Hopefully this list gets the wheels turning and helps you find just the right way to say thanks. And before I sign off, I’ll just offer one friendly (but firm) tip:
Please don’t give a mug.
I say this with love. They have so many. Teachers have opinions about mugs. Storage space is limited. A thoughtful card? That’ll be saved forever. Another mug? Maybe not.
Here’s to making the end of the school year a little sweeter for the folks who show up every day for our kids.
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