ARE CASH GIFTS TO TEACHERS APPROPRIATE?

 

The Northwestern Lehigh School board policy committee has taken up the issue of gifts to teachers, coaches, band leaders etc.

 

It has come to the committee's attention that the practice of students giving gift cards by school students to teachers and other school personnel has become prevalent.

 

The debate is whether to limit the amount or to restrict it in  some way.

 

Some suggested it be limited to $25.00  per student.

 

Some would like to eliminate the practice completely.

 

I am sure not all families are in a financial position to give gifts.

 

Are students who are unable to give gifts embarrassed by the practice? 

 

Do students and parents feel compelled to conform to the practice?

 

Are coaches rewarded for play time by some athletes ?

 

I remember the days of apples and thank you cards.

 

Where does a trend like this go over time?

 

Personally I do believe crafts made by students, and cards and letters of appreciation are very appropriate, but I do think that anything over that should be banned by making it a known policy that all other gifts cannot be accepted.  

The school board policy committee meets Monday October 5.