Goodie Bags for School Teachers

There is a metaphor in the Chinese language that likens teachers as “engineers of the human soul”. Teachers are often like our second parents; they contribute so much to our lives, but we do not appreciate them enough. Making goody bags for teachers is a fun and creative way to show respect and gratitude to our teachers.

Steps

• Set a date for distributing the goody bags. Some possible days are the beginning of the semester, or during National Teacher Appreciation Week that falls in May.
• Decide who the recipients of the goody bags will be to estimate how many goody bags you need to prepare. Will you focus on certain schools, teachers who teach certain age groups?
• Check if you need permission from the school to distribute the bags. Make sure to follow the school’s instructions.
• Recruit volunteers and gather your resources. Ask for donations, gift certificates or discounted prices at dollar stores, craft stores, stationery stores, and restaurants. Here are some ideas
• Personalize the goody bags. Have children and youth groups at the church write thank you notes on cards or bookmarks to the teachers.
• If possible, hand deliver the goody bags but be careful not to interrupt the classes. If not, place the bags in the teachers’ mailboxes or at a designated area e.g. Teacher’s Lounge.

Teaching tools

• Whistle for recess
• Stationery like markers, highlighters, and pens
• Sticky notes
• Smock

Organization tools

• note pad
• planner
• Crate for files
• Label maker

Self-care

• lotion
• hand sanitizer
• words of encouragement
• Aspirin

For fun

• Gift certificates
• Disposable cameras
• Hershey’s Hugs/Kisses
• Miniature gavel

Accidents/emergencies

• Band Aid
• Quick fix runs in hose
• Sewing kit

Tips

• Get creative. You can also consider making the goody bags according to months. For example, prepare candy canes and small ornaments for December or Easter candy and a pack of seeds for April.