From personalized to practical, these teacher gifts score an A+ for creativity and thoughtfulness. And just in time for Teacher Appreciation Week, too!
Whether it’s to say “welcome back to school” or “hooray for summer,” these teacher appreciation gift ideas are sure to earn you some serious extra credit as the best gift-giver around. As you shop for a teacher gift, don’t forget one of the elementary rules of gift-giving: it’s the thought that counts. The best teacher gift ideas are fun and creative and will make them smile all the way to summer vacation. With Teacher Appreciation Week coming up fast (starting May 6!), it’s the perfect time to express your gratitude with a sweet and thoughtful present.
See the top teacher gift ideas:
Teacher Gifts Under $20 | Personalized Teacher Gifts | Teacher Appreciation Gifts | End-of-Year Teacher Gifts | Christmas Gifts for Teachers
Your homework? Study this list of the most useful and unique gifts for teachers and grab the perfect present for every educator on your list.
The ultimate Teacher Appreciation Week gift bag
If a single gift just doesn’t seem like it’s enough for your favorite teacher, a gift bag might be the way to go. Snag a custom name tote bag and fill it with everything from customized pencils to cold brew for long days and a candle for winding down. Add in a tumbler, lanyard, stickers and a desk sign (all personalized, of course!) to complete the goodie bag for the teacher you’re so glad to have in your life, and ready to make their day—no, wait, their semester!
Teacher gifts under $20
Even a small teacher gift can have a big impact. Add a few sweet words from your student and you’ve got a gold-star gift that's sure to make them feel appreciated. A great, simple option to welcome in a new school year and especially helpful if you have multiple students or several teachers to buy gifts for, these teacher appreciation gifts are priced under $20.
1. An encouraging reminder
SHOP: "You’re Doing Great" enamel pin from Alphabet Bags, $10
Enamel pins are all the rage with students these days, so choosing one for a small teacher gift is a great way to help your teacher earn some serious street cred with their class. Choose a cheery design or a pin with a motivational saying on it and remind the teacher in your life just how awesome you think they are.
2. Grammar-inspired pencils
SHOP: Green grammar pencils from Newton and the Apple, $10
Every teacher could use a few more writing implements in their classroom, and these lesson-inspired pencil sets will help remind students of important facts each time they ask to borrow one. But beware, these pencils are so fun, students may not want to return them.
3. A creative gift card holder
SHOP: Pencil candy box pattern from Claudine Hellmuth, $5
Gift cards and candy are always a simple way to say thank you to a teacher, and you can make them even more special with DIY gift packaging from Etsy. Simply click to print and you’ll receive a downloadable pattern for creating a cute gift card holder or gift box—perfect for an Etsy Gift Card!
4. A new book for their classroom library
SHOP: Priya Dreams of Marigolds & Masala by Meenal Patel, $18
Choosing a children’s book for your teacher’s library is a gift their whole classroom can enjoy over and over. Even better? Finding one that reflects your own story, and introduces a new and unique perspective to pupils for years to come.
5. Printable classroom poster
SHOP: Times table multiplication poster from We Love Learning, $12
These rainbow-hued multiplication tables bring a pop of cheer to classroom walls and double as a helpful learning tool for students, too.
6. A gift for science teachers
SHOP: Periodic table keychain from Nestled Pine Woodworks, $13
Inspired by the periodic table, this handy keychain can be customized to spell your science teacher's name using elements both real and imaginary. (Bonus: attached as a zipper pull, it also makes for some serious backpack swag.)
Personalized gifts for teachers
Picking a personalized gift for a teacher is a sure way to get moved to the head of the class. In addition to adding their name to the present, score some bonus points by adding unique personalization like the school year, school name, and subject they teach.
7. A book all about them
SHOP: Super teacher book by From Lucy + Co., $30
Remind the super teachers in your life just how wonderful they are with a new book for their classroom library with a very special guest star—them!
8. Personalized desk decor
SHOP: Personalized artsy coasters from Crafted by Lynski, $17
These colorful coasters are packed with an eye-pleasing array of school supplies, can be personalized with your teacher's name, and can double as a paperweight, too.
9. A personalized teacher stamp
SHOP: Teacher stamp set from Moa Stamps, from $14
Make it easy for teachers to give a compliment on their students’ homework with a personalized teacher stamp set featuring an encouraging message. You can request that the stamp be customized with the teacher’s name, and many sets include multiple stamps with additional accolades. Don’t forget to include an ink pad when you give this teacher gift.
10. Personalized teacher desk sign
SHOP: Teacher name pencil desk sign from Night Owl Designs, $14
Be the number one gifter with this number two pencil-inspired desk plaque, inscribed with your teacher's name. From classic classroom motifs like books and apples to modern acrylic and metal styles, you’ll find many different teacher desk signs from the small businesses on Etsy.
11. A personalized teacher bracelet set
SHOP: School teacher bracelet from Becky's Creations, from $20
Whether it's their full name or their initials, these statement-making bracelets can be artistically arranged to match your teacher's taste. Add a personalized pouch and presto! They're gift giving-ready.
12. A personalized teacher planner
SHOP: Personalized teacher planner from Baum Designs, $39
From lesson planning to jotting down important lists or keeping track of the hilarious things their students say, there are so many things a teacher can do with a lesson planner binder—and this one comes handsomely engraved. Set them up with any style of inserts, or let the teacher on your list organize their pages their way.
13. A custom chalkboard calendar
SHOP: Personalized dry erase chalkboard from Circle & Square, from $54
Help your teacher keep track of due dates, classroom birthdays, and other special occasions with a custom chalkboard calendar. You can even choose between a traditional chalkboard or a magnetic dry erase design.
14. A custom coin purse
SHOP: Teacher coin purse from Mama Bleu Designs, from $39
Whether it’s lunch money, charging cords, or small desk supplies (bobby pins and binder clips, anyone?), a coin purse is a useful gift idea for teachers. There’s always something it can be used for! Pick a coin purse you can personalize with a phrase, like “Best Teacher Ever,” or their name, and they’re sure to find a good use for this teacher gift.
15. Personalized teacher stationary set
SHOP: Teacher stationery set from Patty Jean Stationery, $18
Perfect for the teacher who's always great about sending home an encouraging message, this stationery set—complete with a personalized paper pad, cards, and envelopes—strikes just the right note.
16. A personalized embossing stamp
SHOP: Custom book embosser from Ladd Stamps, from $25
To help teachers keep track of their classroom library books, a custom embossing stamp reminds students where to return their picks once they’ve turned the final page. Easy to use, an embossing stamp imprints a raised design on the first page (or any page!) in a book and doesn’t require any ink. The stamp can be personalized with the teacher’s name, initials, or room number, and many options have interchangeable plates with a few different designs.
Teacher appreciation gift ideas
Teacher Appreciation Week is generally the first full week in May, a Teacher Appreciation Day is officially on Tuesday during this week. This year, Teacher Appreciation Day is officially on May 7, 2024—but there’s no need to wait until the end of the school year to give a teacher a gift; a teacher appreciation gift in the middle of the year can mean a lot, too! Especially after a school event they’ve coordinated or a big assignment they’ve helped your student with.
17. A hand painted clipboard
SHOP: Hand painted clipboard from The Heart Department Co, $40
Say thank you to the best teacher ever with a hand-painted clipboard that comes with a removable stand. It's a cute and tidy way for teachers to tote around those oh-so-important papers throughout the day.
18. A notebook-inspired zippered pouch
SHOP: Personalized notebook zippered pouch from Moonwake Designs, $13
A customized zippered pouch is a perfect way to say thank you to the teachers on your gift list this year. For extra credit, you can easily tuck a few sweet surprises inside, like mints, gift cards, and other little treats.
19. Peppy planner stickers
SHOP: “To Do” planner stickers from Shooting Star Stickers, $3
Being an awesome teacher takes a whole lot of organization, and a set of brightly colored planner stickers can make this task just a bit more beautiful. These versatile planner stickers can be used on desk calendars and with a variety of planner notebooks.
20. A pretty plant for their desk
SHOP: Planting seeds plant tag from Dear Scout, $10
If you’re shopping for a thank you gift for a teacher, why not deliver some gorgeous greenery to their desk? Bring them their own botanical buddy in a small pot, then personalize it with a nice note on a plant stake.
21. A simple note
SHOP: "You Rule" card from Ink Paper Love, $4
Often, a simple note of gratitude is all a teacher needs to be reminded that their work matters. A witty, school supply-inspired greeting card is a “punny” way to say thanks that’s sure to put a smile on their face.
22. A colorful lunch bag
SHOP: Waxed canvas lunch bag from WAAM Industries, $30
You can help make lunchtime a bright spot in a teacher’s day with a colorful reusable lunch bag from Etsy. These rainbow-hued sacks make lunchtime a real event, and can be used for toting other essentials, too, like art supplies, electronics, and more.
End-of-year gifts for teachers
As the school year winds down, teachers get a few months to themselves to pursue all those passions they put on hold since fall. Whether it's catching up on their reading list or taking a quick trip, these end-of-year teacher gifts will help them have a stellar summer.
23. A personalized bookmark
SHOP: Teacher bookmark from Artigiana Creations, $13
This personalized bookmark is a thoughtful gift for the teachers who have helped shape your student's educational journey.
24. A relaxing candle
SHOP: Lavender scented candle from Mia's Co., $22
Scented candles are perfect for the teacher whose only homework this summer is to set aside time for some serious rest and relaxation. This lavender-scented pick is just waiting for the teacher in your life to take a few moments to themselves with a bubble bath and a book once the final grades are entered.
25. A simple cross-stitch pattern
SHOP: “Teaching is a Work of Heart” cross stitch pattern from Little Apple Stitchery, $5
An affordable end-of-year gift idea for teachers, this pattern is downloadable. You can use it to whip up a quick embroidery gift or pass them the pattern to enjoy in their upcoming free time.
26. A card from the class
SHOP: "The Best Teacher Award" thank you card from Laura Danby, from $5
As the year winds down, tell the teacher on your list just how special they are by sharing a card with the class for everyone to sign. A card like this “Best Teacher” pick can be framed as an end-of-year award, too.
27. School-inspired jewelry
SHOP: Coloring pencil earring studs from Lydia Swann, $17
A subtle reminder of their time in the classroom, these colorful earrings reimagine a classic school supply as stylish everyday wear.
28. A luggage tag for summer adventures
SHOP: Engraved luggage tag from Little Dot Studio, $13
Hopefully the teacher on your gift list has some great adventures planned this summer. Get them in the globetrotting mood with a personalized luggage tag, which can be detailed with their name or a special phrase. If adding an address feels a bit too personal, consider using that space for a thoughtful thank you note they’ll see every time they get away.
Christmas gifts for teachers
Hooray! You’ve made it halfway through the school year and it’s time to say “Thanks!” to the teachers for all they’ve done so far. The holidays are a perfect time to pick a teacher gift that they can use through the rest of the school year—like fun desk accessories and classroom decor.
29. Desk organizers for teachers
SHOP: Wood colored pencil holder from Mazais Meistars, $42
A teacher’s desk is the heart and hub of their classroom...and it’s hard to keep it clean! Help them cut the clutter and keep things a bit more orderly with a handcrafted wood desk organizer like this rainbow-inspired colored pencil holder.
30. Wall art for teachers
SHOP: Teacher quote from Little Giraffe Prints, from $5
Give your teacher's classroom a dash of personality with a fun wall art print featuring an animal-themed alphabet, the world map, or a motivational quote to encourage them as well as their students. Need a last-minute teacher gift? Look for an instant download and get ready to print, frame, and give!
31. A personal planner
SHOP: One Day at a Time planner from The Lamare, $36
After spending so much time planning lessons and activities for the school year, it's easy for a teacher's personal to-do's to take a backseat. Time to teach them a thing or two about self-care with a beautiful, personal planner they can use to keep track of life outside the classroom.
32. Bookends for the classroom library
SHOP: Agate bookends from Design Pretty, $96
Over the years, many teachers have built quite the collection of classroom books. A creative set of bookends is a functional and fun way to decorate a classroom. If you’re shopping for multiple teachers’ gifts this year, consider creating a mix-and-match set from several different makers on Etsy.
33. A set of wall hooks
SHOP: Mid-century modern-inspired wall hooks from Drop Metal, $23
From backpacks and jackets to hats and totes, kids carry a lot of things into their teacher’s classroom—especially in the cooler months around the holidays. As you shop for a Christmas gift for your teacher, consider a festive set of wall hooks that can be used by both students and instructors alike. Bright, bold designs are a delightful choice, or you can shop for hooks that match the teacher’s subject, such as state-shaped hooks for a geography teacher.
Best gifts for teachers FAQ
What do teachers really want for gifts?
The best teacher gift ideas are presents they’ll be able to use to make their lives in the classroom a bit easier and a lot cheerier! Fun desk accessories like pencil cups, plants, and desk signs are perfect to help them fill their classroom with personality. Gift cards are always appreciated and you can make them feel even more special with a DIY gift card holder. Your student can help with the DIY project, too, for a special touch.
How much should you spend on a teacher’s gift?
You’ll find many different teacher gift ideas for all budgets from the shops on Etsy. From small teacher gifts to express your appreciation—like printable gift tags and cute cards—to special keepsakes that are perfect as a gift from the whole class, a handcrafted gift from an Etsy shop is a great choice for the teachers on your list.
Discover more gifts on Etsy
Explore more gifts for teachers on Etsy:
How do we pick the best teacher gifts?
As Etsy Journal editors and contributors research and curate shopping guides for some of the best-loved items on Etsy, we thoughtfully consider the creativity, customization, and craftsmanship that go into each product. We also consider buyer reviews, item ratings, and customer service, and tap the expertise of our in-house merchandising and trends experts to uncover high-quality finds for every budget. You can find more information about each item in the seller’s listing details and can take a look at their individual shop policies and reviews, too.