10 Best Teacher Gifts for 2024, According to Educators (Almost All Under $10!)
Need teacher gift ideas? Here are the best teacher gift ideas according to teachers.
Shop the best teacher gifts to start the year fresh! We know what teachers really want and need so shop our top teacher gift ideas now!
Back to school is the perfect time to show your gratitude for our hardworking educators. Shop the best teacher gifts to kick off the start of the school year! We know what teachers really want and need because these gift ideas were all submitted by actual teachers!
Here are the best teacher gifts gift guide according to actual teachers:
1. Gift cards are the best gifts for teachers according to teachers and the class can each contribute $1 for a larger gift card.
Teachers deserve to treat themselves to something special whether it’s something they’ll treat themselves to or something they could use for their classroom. After hearing from HUNDREDS of teachers, it was clear gift cards are the top most requested gift idea they’ll never tire of receiving. It requires no storage and helps them afford something they want or need.
Make your gift stand out. Use our FREE printables to make a witty, home-made gift card holder.
Consider asking the entire class to participate in organizing one large gift card for their teacher.
Just a $1-$3 per parent can accumulate into such a substantial gift so teachers can really treat themselves to something special. To get the most bang for your buck, we recommend getting discounted gift cards from reputable retailers like Sam’s Club.
Need more teacher gift ideas? Here are the top requested gift cards to consider:
- Starbucks
- Target
- Gas stations
- Grocery stores
- Local small shops
- Local masseuse, nail salon, or self-care service
- Or a Visa Gift Card they can spend anywhere
Get the most bang for your buck by scoring a restaurant gift cards deal from our big list of current offers!
Hip Tip: Teachers…did you receive a gift card you’ll never use? Here’s how to sell gift cards for cash fast so it doesn’t go to waste.
2. A hand-written card they can look back on is one of the best gift ideas for teachers.
Handwritten Cards – Potentially FREE!
We heard from hundreds of teachers across the country and of all the things they’ve kept over the years, the handwritten cards of appreciation (from students or parents) are the ones they have always held onto above everything else. Consider having your kiddo write something they’re really looking forward to with their new teacher this year or mention good things they’ve heard about them from past students.
As some teachers mentioned… “There are only so many trinkets you can hold onto”.
On rough days, it’ll be the perfect sentiment for them to look back on when they need some words of encouragement. We know now more than ever teachers could use them. ❤️ If you’re looking for the best teacher gifts that will have the most meaning, a card is all you need! It’s truly one of the best teacher gift ideas.
Hip Tip: Here’s how to snag a FREE Hallmark Card!
“Teacher here! Have your kid write a nice card. I have saved every single one I’ve ever received from a student. I call it my ‘happy file and look through it on bad days.” – Emily, Hip Reader & Teacher
“Gift cards are always nice, but a handmade card from your student will always take the cake! I have every card/note/picture my students have given me in a box in my classroom. They’re nice reminders on tough school days.” – Bailee, Hip Reader & Teacher
“For those with tiny or no budgets for teacher gifts, I can honestly tell you, a sincere note of appreciation, especially if you can be specific about something the teacher did, is way more meaningful than any gift.” – Anne, Hip Reader & Teacher
3. A hot meal since they rarely (if ever) get to eat lunch out.
Teachers take their lunch to school nearly every single day of the year with zero days to treat themselves to lunch at their favorite spot. One of the most requested teacher gifts (by teachers themselves) was simply a fresh hot meal!
Whether it’s a gift card to a meal delivery service or you’re having it delivered right to their classroom, this is one teacher appreciation gift idea that will surely be appreciated by any hardworking professional. Just be sure to find out what their favorite food is and whether they have any dietary restrictions so your generous gift won’t go to waste!
“There is a healthy meal prep lady where we live. I gave the teachers a choice of which meal they wanted for their family, and it was delivered to school. They had to only take it home and pop it in the oven. They LOVED it.” – Stacy, Hip Reader & Teacher
4. Treat your favorite teacher to some homemade snacks.
When it comes to teacher gift ideas, many of Hip’s teachers said they loved getting snacks. A homemade dessert is a gift that shows thought, time, and effort. Plus, it’s a present that doesn’t require a lot of space or long-term storage.
Treat your favorite teacher to one of these yummy recipes:
You may want to check with the teacher beforehand to find out any dietary restrictions or allergies.
“I have a student right now and he dips Oreos in chocolate and puts sprinkles on them and brings them to me for every holiday! So good and it’s a snack to keep me going through the day at school!” – Ashly, Hip Reader & Teacher
5. A gift basket filled with goodies is one of the most requested teacher gift ideas.
Hotpop Popcorn Maker – $9.99+ (regularly $17.99)
While popcorn isn’t a specific item that teachers request, many of them said how much they love thoughtful gift baskets with treats and foods they’ll really enjoy. To create our popcorn gift basket idea, all you need is our favorite collapsible silicone popcorn maker, some kernels, a drink, and a little note to tie your vision together. You can also add some fun popcorn seasonings too! 🤩
We do have a FREE “Thanks for a Poppin’ School Year” printable, but you could write your own note that says “Looking forward to a poppin’ year!” if you’re gifting this gift basket idea at the beginning of the school year.
Consider treating them to a s’mores basket that will be perfect for Fall!
“Include stuff for s’mores, telescoping roasting forks, fire flame colors, s’mores themed towel, etc. with a card that reads; ‘Here’s to a school year that’s ‘s’more’ amazing than ever!'” – Sarah, Hip reader
6. Gift a group of teachers an affordable mirror with a cute cardstock note.
Compact Fruity Mirrors – $9.99 ($1.67 each)
Gift this unique compact mirror teacher gift idea to a group of teachers! It’s useful, under $2, and is a gift they’ll never forget! This gift only requires the purchase of a compact mirror set and some sweet notes from your kiddo to pair with each one. Read more about our compact mirror teacher gift idea and see how my daughter assembled hers!
Here are some thoughtful ideas for cards if you’re gifting these at the beginning of the school year.
- “A mirror to reflect the wonderful teacher you are! Let’s make this school year unforgettable!”
- “Every time you look in this mirror, remember that you’re an inspiration to us all! Here’s to an outstanding year!”
- “A mirror to remind you that you’re not just a teacher; you’re a shining example! Have a great school year!”
- “A mirror to remind you that every day you reflect greatness! Here’s to a brilliant school year ahead!”
- “Look in this mirror to see someone who makes a world of difference! Thanks for shining bright this school year!”
7. Fun gift ideas for teachers include beautiful plants they can keep in their classroom or take home.
20 Live Succulent Plants on Amazon – $26.54 ($1.33 each)
Our amazing teachers help our children grow every day and showing your appreciation of their growth in the literal form will be a constant reminder of you and your kiddo’s gratitude. Plus, when you buy a large pack of succulents, it makes a super affordable gift to give to multiple teachers.
Here are some thoughtful ideas for cards if you’re gifting these at the beginning of the school year.
- “Thank you for helping us ‘root’ for success! Have a fantastic school year!”
- “May this plant bring some green joy to your classroom as you ‘grow’ through another amazing year!”
- “Just like this plant, your dedication helps us flourish! Cheers to a bright and blossoming school year!”
- “This plant is a symbol of the growth and knowledge you nurture in us! Here’s to a ‘tree-mendous’ school year!”
Hip Tip: Make an easy ruler succulent planter if you want to gift them something they’ll love displaying on their desk. 🤩 Walmart has wood rulers for just 54¢!
8. Personalized items for the classroom can make thoughtful and cool teacher gifts
Personalized Whiteboard Eraser Teacher Gift – $10.40 (regularly $13)
*Shipping is $4.38 or FREE on $35+ orders
One of our Hip readers, Kelly, makes these adorable custom whiteboard eraser gifts that are well received every school year. We think these highly-rated personalized erasers would look so cute and cheerful in the classroom and it’s something every teacher will use all school year! They come beautifully packaged with the Expo markers included so it’s truly the best of both worlds if you’re looking for something thoughtful and effortless.
9. Classroom essentials and school supplies to stock a teacher’s classroom are great ideas too.
Classroom supplies as low as 25¢
One of the best gift ideas for teachers is a classroom donation of supplies they can use throughout the year! A LOT of teachers reported shelling out big bucks to stock their own classrooms with supplies. Walmart is a great place to find many items priced well under $1 each. You can even grab this useful 6-cup holder caddy from Dollar Tree to fill with your goodies.
As a rule of thumb, it’s always best to check with your teacher directly if you’re unsure what they’re in need of most. These gifts are the best gifts for teachers even if they’re fully stocked at the beginning of the school year because they’ll use it eventually. Even without a big budget, just one item is better than nothing at all.
Here are some affordable and thoughtful ideas to gift to teachers any time of year:
Hip Tip: Grab our ultimate list of the best prices for school supplies in 2024.
10. Flair pens, and Flair pens only.
Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens – $3.59+
If you’re unsure what a teacher’s love language is at the beginning of the school year, it’s Flair pens (and Flair pens only). 😂 According to numerous teachers across the country, gift a pack of Paper Mate Flair pens and they’ll be thrilled with this top-requested school supply, always! If you know, you know. 😉 Simply throw them in a pretty gift bag from Dollar Tree and have your child write a sentimental card to accompany them. With packs starting under $4, you’ll have an affordable gift idea for one teacher or break up a larger pack of Flair pens and gift them to multiple teachers.
BONUS: Still can’t decide? Try this DIY drink holder gift that has a combination of gift ideas…
Give your teacher a gift that will really start off the year in a memorable way! This simple drink holder teacher appreciation gift idea includes a gift card, candle, plant, coffee, and drink holder! Best of all, you can customize it however you wish depending on your budget and teachers likes.
As a tip, wait for a letter from your teacher at the end of summer. Teachers usually send home a note introducing themselves, which is a great way for students to learn about their interests and things they like.
Browse all of our FREE Teacher printables that can be used year-round!
Librarians! I never see librarians listed! Please don’t leave out your child’s librarian.
I think the “Teacher Favorites” lists are the golden ticket. Knowing a teacher’s favorite place to shop, their favorite drink/snack etc helps them feel known and appreciated all throughout the year. Definitely a quality over quantity situation. I very much appreciated a surprise latte on a random Monday:)
Five years from now most teachers and staff won’t remember if you gave them any gifts throughout the year, but they will remember if you were kind and appreciative. As a former teacher and para, express your gratitude rather than spend money.
Every year a parent in the classroom asks for monetary donations to go towards a teacher gift fund. I love this idea! It’s so much easier for me to contribute once to the fund and know the teacher will receive a group gift for the holidays and end of the year.
Our school does a Google doc with all of the schools teacher info (elem-high school). Things such as favorite drinks, pop, candy, food, ect. That way if you want to ever get them anything, even small. You don’t have to guess. In their individual classes the teachers will usually tell us what they’re shot on and parents can sign up & donate items during the year. I tend to do those things, instead of something they might not want later. For bus drivers I just give him chocolate or candy with a note saying thank you for driving us safely.
Don’t forget about the school nurse!!
Teacher for 30 years here. PLEASE send in those handmade cards! I have a large manila envelope full of all of the heartfelt cards I’ve received over the years–they are dear to my heart. I wouldn’t think for one second, “Where’s the gift card that should go with this?” Truly, most teachers would just love to be recognized, appreciated, thanked for their hard work.
I think when these lists are put out, it’s because parents are asking and the school office or PTO…are wanting to be helpful.
You could get $ 1 scratch off lottery tickets and put into a card saying how lucky I am to have you as my teacher. Or you could make a bunch of muffins and package nicely with a little note. Or buy a bag of individual potato chips and give them out with a note you are all that and a bag of chips. Things purchased in bulk will keep the cost down.
A few times a school year I take bake and take about 100 (it’s a small school) chocolate chip cookies up to the front office for everyone with a cute note attached telling them all how appreciated they are. They all seem to really appreciate the thought and sentiment.
I bring my girl’s kinder teacher a coffee once a month. They got $15 gc for dutch bros coffee for treat during break and I’ll do the samr for Christmas.
That’s super thoughtful of you to treat your daughter’s teacher each month, Nkiser! I’m sure it’s much appreciated! ☕️❤️ Thanks for sharing what you’ll be gifting! 🎄
I work in a preschool. Please stay away from anything scented unless you know your teacher likes a certain one. All the candles, lotions, etc. are a nice gesture but a lot of folks can’t take scents. We always use soaps, hand sanitizer, tissues, expo markers and sharpies and most of that comes out of our pockets. Also books for the classroom with your child’s name put on the inside is always a welcomed gift. I appreciate even just a $5 gift card. That’s enough to get a coffee or breakfast on the way to work or to grab lunch.
As a teacher myself, I happily accept any gift I am given whether it’s something I want or not. I am just grateful for the gesture. I don’t drink coffee, but if I receive it, I express my gratitude and then I give it to someone who I know drinks coffee. Apply that logic to scented candles and lotions. Easy!
Life is expensive for families, for mine, too. I always appreciate hand written notes or the pictures my students draw. It’s just nice to be appreciated and remembered.
I always try to donate throughout the school year because I was a hands on volunteer for many years and know alot comes out of the teachers pockets. wish more teachers would post what they like such as candy coffee treats but many don’t. if they have a family I try to do a gift card for a night out to the movies or a restaurant I know life is busy and atleast make one meal easy or have a little family outing.
Thankyou to all you Teachers that shape our futures!! Thankyou to all the contributors that put together theses posts!! Such an unselfish act to help others like ALL of you do!!