IPPN

Published: 21 December 2010

Many parents still buy very expensive presents for their children’s teachers, so schools have started to request children only give handmade cards

IN HARD times, wise heads invest in education. Does this extend to Christmas presents for teachers? Last week Debenhams department store issued a press release documenting a rise in the value of gifts bought for teachers this year, bucking the national taste for frugality. An online survey of 1,000 parents revealed that Debenhams shoppers in Dublin and Cork were spending an average of €75 per present per teacher. Branded perfumes, clothing and champagne were common purchases. One parent opted for a Calvin Klein watch (€227), while another thought their child’s teacher was worth the €287 price tag for a set of John Rocha Waterford Crystal wine glasses.

Back in the real world, a growing number of schools have decided that enough is enough. The boom years saw the stakes rise to the point of absurdity, and according to Larry Fleming of the Irish Primary Principals Network (IPPN), some boards of management are taking a stand.

“There are definitely more schools around the country adopting a policy of no presents this year,” says Fleming. “Here at the IPPN we think the time has come to go back to basics. Last year, we had reports of teachers going home with expensive jewellery and very generous shopping vouchers – up to €200. That’s what prompted us to take an official position on the issue this year. Homemade cards say thank you with far more meaning than vouchers.”

At the Sacred Heart National School in Tallaght, Co Dublin the following note went home to parents this month: “As we approach Christmas, the staff of the school has asked me to write to you with the following suggestion. In the present economic situation, we would like to suggest that no presents are given to teachers this year. The teachers do not expect presents from pupils or their families. In fact, what teachers appreciate most is a handmade card. If you feel you would like to make a gesture of support or appreciation, we suggest that by buying some raffle tickets at the Christmas concert, you would actually be showing your support for the work of the school in a very practical way.”

 

Full Story: www.irishtimes.com