Guiding a student teacher through their journey is a rewarding experience, and finding the right way to express appreciation can be equally fulfilling. Whether they’re completing their practicum or preparing for their own classroom, thoughtful gifts can make a significant impact. From practical tools that aid in their teaching journey to heartfelt gestures that show gratitude, there are numerous ways to acknowledge their dedication and hard work. Here are some meaningful ideas of gifts for student teachers that will leave a lasting impression.
Heartfelt Gift Ideas for Your Student Teacher
1. Books
One timeless gift for student teachers is a selection of books that they can use to kickstart their first day of school with confidence and inspiration.
Personal Development
From classroom management strategies to creative lesson plans, these books serve as invaluable resources to navigate the challenges and opportunities of teaching. Consider gifting titles like:
- The First Days of School by Harry K. Wong and Rosemary T. Wong
- The Classroom Management Book by Harry K. Wong
These types of books will equip them with practical insights and techniques for establishing a positive and productive learning environment from day one.
Picture Books
Another great idea is gifting picture books. Add a personal touch to their classroom library with picture books that foster a sense of belonging and celebrate individuality. Some books to consider are:
- First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg
- Be You by Peter H. Reynolds
- Our Class is a Family by Shannon Olsen
By sharing these types of beloved picture books with their students, student teachers can set a positive tone for the school year ahead.
2. Student Letters of Recommendation
Another thoughtful gift idea for student teachers is to have their students write heartfelt letters of recommendation. Encouraging students to express their appreciation and share their experiences can have a profound impact, not only on the student teacher but also on the students themselves.
These letters serve as a testament to the student teacher’s dedication and impact. They also provide valuable feedback and encouragement as they embark on their teaching career.
Reading these personal reflections can be a touching reminder of the positive influence they’ve had on their students and inspire them to continue making a difference in the lives of others.
3. Class Photo Album
An endearing gift idea for student teachers is to have each of their students contribute a page to a personalized photo album. This heartfelt gesture captures cherished memories and milestones throughout the school year. From heartfelt notes to creative artwork, each page reflects the unique bond between the student teacher and their class.
It serves as a lasting memento of the impact they’ve made on their students’ lives. As they flip through the pages, the student teacher is reminded of the meaningful connections they’ve formed and the positive influence they’ve had on their students.
Practical Tools for Your Student Teacher
4. Laminator & Laminating Sheets
For a practical gift that enhances their teaching toolkit, consider a personal laminator along with laminating sheets for the student teacher.
This versatile tool allows them to preserve and protect teaching materials for years to come. This will save them time and help them work more efficiently. No need to head on over to the office supply store or wait on the school laminator.
Additionally, we know that first year teachers will take a lot of work home. A personal laminator is transportable. This will allow them to laminate at home as well.
5. Paper Cutter
Another practical gift idea for student teachers is a personal paper cutter, an essential tool for streamlining classroom preparation. With a personal paper cutter, student teachers can efficiently cut papers for various classroom activities, saving time and ensuring precision. This handy device not only enhances productivity but also allows for neat and consistent cuts, resulting in professional-looking materials that enhance the learning environment.
Whether it’s creating handouts, bulletin board displays, or student projects, a personal paper cutter empowers student teachers to effortlessly tackle their cutting tasks and focus on delivering engaging lessons to their students.
6. Teacher Planner
Consider gifting a teacher planner to student teachers for streamlined lesson planning and organization. A good planner includes monthly and weekly layouts, space for lesson plans and grades, and extra note pages. This essential tool empowers student teachers to stay organized, set goals, and reflect on their teaching practice effectively.
7. Rolling Cart
Another great option is a rolling cart. It is a practical solution for classroom organization and mobility. This versatile tool provides convenient storage for teaching materials, supplies, and resources, helping student teachers keep their classroom tidy and functional.
With its multiple shelves or compartments, a rolling cart offers ample space to store textbooks, lesson materials, art supplies, and more. Whether used for distributing papers, storing teaching aids, or organizing student work, a rolling cart enhances efficiency and accessibility in the classroom.
8. Dry Erase Markers
A set of dry erase markers to student teachers, featuring a variety of colored markers for their use and black markers for their students is another great alternative. These markers are invaluable tools for enhancing classroom instruction and engagement.
Colored markers enable student teachers to create visually appealing and organized lesson materials on the board. This makes it easier for students to follow along and understand complex concepts. Meanwhile, black markers provide students with the means to participate actively in small group activities or respond individually on whiteboards or page protectors.
9. Pencil Sharpener and Pencils
A pencil sharpener is a classroom essential. This makes it a great option as a gift for your student teacher. Xacto pencil sharpeners are very dependable making them the perfect gift. Including a beginner set of Ticonderoga pencils is also a nice addition.
10. E-Z Grader
If you’ve ever used an E-Z Grader before, you know how much easier it makes grading papers. Just pull out the slider to the total number of problems on the worksheet, and it gives you the percentage for each one. These things have been around for decades and there is a reason why. They have almost perfect reviews on Amazon as well. This is the perfect little addition to a basket or group gift.
11. Cute Teacher T-Shirt
You can’t go wrong with a cute teacher t-shirt. We all LOVE to incorporate them into our teacher wardrobe. Start of your student teachers collection.
12. Teachers Pay Teachers Gift Card
Consider giving student teachers the gift of creativity and flexibility with a Teachers Pay Teachers gift card. This thoughtful gesture allows them to explore the vast collection of resources on TeachersPayTeachers.com and select lessons, activities, and materials that best suit their teaching style and classroom needs.
With access to a wide range of content created by experienced educators, student teachers can:
- find inspiration,
- save time on lesson planning,
- and enhance their teaching repertoire with engaging and effective resources.
Gifts for Student Teachers Conclusion
Whether it’s practical tools or heartfelt gestures, hopefully you have found some good suggestions of gifts for student teachers. These little tokens will help them feel appreciated and inspired as they start off their journey.
