A Note of Gratitude to Teachers, Volunteers, and Families. As the academic year draws to a close, it’s time to thank our unsung heros – the teachers, volunteers and families that support our students. From the first day of school to last, it’s a collective effort to support our students, and it’s never possible without all the hard work put forth by our dedicated teachers, volunteers, and families. To all the teachers who have poured their hearts and souls into educating and nurturing our children, we owe you a debt of gratitude. Your dedication, patience, and creativity have made a profound impact on the lives of your students, shaping them into the bright individuals they are becoming. Thank you for your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment. We also want to recognize the school volunteers, who have selflessly given their time and energy to enrich the learning experience of students, we appreciate you more than words can express. Whether it’s assisting in the classroom, organizing events, or offering your expertise in countless ways outside the classroom, their contributions make a difference in the school community. And to the parents and families who have been steadfast partners in their children’s education, thank you for your continuous support and involvement. Reinforcing the importance of learning and school involvement from home plays a crucial role in the success of our students. Over the years we have been heavily involved in our children’s education. From this experience, we have compiled a list of thoughtful gifts. This list is a way to express gratitude for the hard work and dedication of our teachers and school volunteers. Here are some ideas for meaningful gifts: Personalized Items: Reusable Tote Bags are practical and eco-friendly. Customized with a monogram are useful for grocery shopping, errands, or carrying items to and from school Personalized stationary sets or notebooks Decorated mason jars filled with candies or small trinkets like binder clips, paper clips, erasers or pencils and a custom label Gift Cards: Gift cards to favorite restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores, or online retailers Spa or salon gift cards for some pampering time Gift cards for educational resources like teaching supply stores or bookstores Sweet Treats: Gourmet chocolates or a selection of favorite candies Everyone has a favorite sweet or savory snack, you can restock their supply A cellophane bag filled with an assortment of snacks and treats and a thank you label Relaxation and Wellness Gifts: Aromatic candles or essential oil diffusers. Stress-relief gifts such as stress balls, soothing eye masks, or herbal teas A cozy blanket or plush robe for relaxation Plants and Flowers: A low maintenance potted plant or succulent A bouquet of fresh flowers School Spirit Gear: School logo stickers, magnets, or keychains Branded pens, pencils, or notepads Small items like bookmarks or fridge magnets with the school’s mascot Educational or Inspirational Items: Books related to specific interests or profession (our favorites) Inspirational quote prints or poster Educational games or puzzles Subscription Services: Subscription boxes for gourmet snacks, coffee, or tea Streaming service subscriptions for entertainment Classroom Supplies: Replenish classroom supplies with items like markers, dry erase supplies, colored pencils, or notepads Educational games or teaching aids DIY Gifts: Handmade crafts or artwork from students Handwritten thank you notes are a sincere, personalized way to express your gratitude for someone’s time and effort in helping the school community Homemade Treats such as baked goods like cookies, brownies, muffins or a DIY snack, granola or trail mix in a cellophane bag with a raffia tie and thank you label A scrapbook filled with memories from the school year DIY bath bombs, salt scrubs, or candles Remember, the most important aspect of any gift is the thought behind it. A heartfelt note of appreciation accompanying any gift can make it even more special. And always consider the individual preferences and interests of the recipient when selecting a gift. We understand that education is a collaborative effort, and it takes a village to raise a child. Together, we want to thank our unsung heros. Our teachers and volunteers have made a difference in the lives of our students, and we are immensely grateful for that.
Projects
Making Lemon Wreaths…
My husband loves all things lemon! Growing up in California, he had a lemon tree in his yard. His family was lucky enough to have a constant, year-round supply of lemons, fresh from their tree. Years ago, when I was living in California, I too had that privilege. My house in Campbell had both a Lisbon Lemon and a Meyer Lemon tree in the backyard. I quickly learned how much I enjoyed the taste, smell and look of lemons. When we made the decision to move to the east coast, I knew leaving the growing capabilities of the Golden State was going to be challenging, especially for my husband. We were moving to the southeast, where neither one of us had ever lived before. I knew the growing season was longer than that of the northeast, where I grew up and spent most of my life, but the rest we would learn over time. Shortly after we settled in, and I began finding my way around the Charlotte area, I stumbled across a nursery that sold citrus trees. I immediately picked up a Meyer Lemon tree. Our lemon tree has been under our care for over 25 years. On average, we pick about 40 lemons from the tree each year. We recognize that it’s easier than ever to purchase good quality produce at local stores, but there is something special about growing the fruit in your own yard. If you have the opportunity to grow your own food, whether in a container on a balcony, herbs in a sunny window or in a backyard garden, I highly recommend it. There’s something very satisfying about eating food that you have grown. People are always amazed that we can grow citrus trees here in the Carolinas. I joke with them that it is possible, but caution them that lemon trees require quite a bit more care than the average houseplant. With this type of dedication to a fruit, it should be no surprise that I incorporate lemons into many aspects of our home. Lemon is the star of the show in baking/cooking, beverages/cocktails, home décor, tableware, gift giving, cleaning supplies, and DIY potpourii/bath salts. Now that I have reiterated my admiration for lemons, it’s fitting that the project I am creating is another wreath that features lemons. To simplify this project, here is a list of supplies that you will need to make your own wreath: Lemon Wreath Supplies Artificial 18” Boxwood Wreath 12 Medium Artificial Lemons 20 Small Artificial Lemons Floral Wire Arranging Kit (for bow making & attaching to wreath) Glue gun and hot glue (for attaching lemons to wreath) 1.5″ Dusty Baby Blue Chiffon Silk Ribbon OR 2.5” Black & White vertical stripe wired ribbon Wreath Inspiration… Making Lemon Wreaths… My husband loves all things lemon! Growing up in California,… Read More
