Words to Thank a Teacher

Thanking a Teacher

Teachers shape the minds of our children and our future. There really are no words to express gratitude for all they do. Many of them are role models and make a huge difference in the lives of children.

When thinking about the best way to thank a teacher, think about what he or she did that was exceptional or above the call of duty, so to speak. Also think about how he or she changed you personally; the way you thought about things, they way you saw yourself and the world in general.

Here are some words and phrases to get you started:

You gave me strength.
I was glad you were my teacher (or child’s teacher).
Thank you for giving me courage.
You made me a better person.
I’ll never forget you.
You gave me confidence in myself. (or my son or daughter)
Thank you for your patience.
You helped me see what I could be.
You are the best teacher ever!

Teacher Appreciation Quotes

Along with words to thank a teacher, you might want to include a quote in your letter or speech. After the quote, you could say something like, “You did just that.” or “You are like that.”

Here is a list of some good ones for you to consider:

It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge. - Albert Einstein
A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops. - Henry Brooks Adams
A teacher is a compass that activates the magnets of curiosity, knowledge, and wisdom in the pupils. - Ever Garrison
One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child. - Carl Jung
The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires. - William Arthur Ward
What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal. - Albert Pike
Those who educate children well are more to be honored than parents, for these only gave life, those the art of living well. - Aristotle
Good teachers make the best of a pupil's means; great teachers foresee a pupil's ends. - Maria Callas
Teaching is the profession that teaches all the other professions. - Author Unknown
Teachers are like the candles, which consume themselves to brighten the lives of others. - Author Unknown
I would thank you from the bottom of my heart, but for you my heart has no bottom. - Author Unknown

Gifts for a Teacher

If you want to give a teacher a gift, there is a lot to think about. A lot depends on how well you know the teacher and her hobbies and interests.

Generic, Useful Gifts

Generic gifts can be things for the classroom, like containers or coffee mugs. The mugs can be useful for holding pens, pencils, or other things if the teacher has enough mugs. Note pads are very useful too, as teachers write a lot of notes. You could include sticky note pads as well.

Gift Baskets and Plants

Gift baskets and potted plants are always appreciated. Gift baskets can be personalized and include things the teacher likes and even supplies for the room.

Gift Cards

Gift cards are also good, as they give the recipient more choices of what to get.

Handwritten Note

A handwritten note from a parent or student is the cheapest but one of the most appreciated gifts to give. Some teachers will put it in a folder and keep it for years. It would be a good idea to put a note with a gift, too.