Are Gifts to Teachers Spreading Holiday Cheer or Bribery?
December 9, 2011 at 2:14 pm
by familycircle
A new law in Alabama forbids public officials and employees from receiving gifts of more than “de minimis value,” according to a recent article on the Huffington Post. Though the law, which came into effect earlier this year, doesn’t state an exact amount as the limit, teachers have been cautioned against accepting holiday gift cards or hams. Things like homemade sweets or a mug are permitted.
It’s no secret that most families are struggling financially, so perhaps the law is a helpful way to help parents save money while saving face. If one child offers homemade brownies and another gives a gift certificate for a massage at the Ritz Carlton, it could potentially lead to an unfair advantage in the classroom. After all, the law passed following a scandal involving corrupt politicians who were influenced by lobbyists. Then again, that relationship is very different from the bond between a teacher and a student. It’s possible that lawmakers have taken the idea a bit far.
What do you think? Should there be a price limit on teacher gifts from students? Does the law help to level the playing field and keep everyone honest, or is it a Grinch-like reaction to a harmless bit of holiday cheer?
–Carly Okyle, FamilyCircle.com intern
Homemade Holiday Food Gifts 
Dealing with difficult teachers 
Freebies and Deals: Holiday Music, Body Shop, Target and More 
strike a balance with constant practice and…
calculation.good article contentjust like i stated earlier “articles writing is not just about writing anyway, anyhow or anything on your blog” you cannot just stuff your posts with keywords, they must also be regarded as good reading materials.your …
My best friend’s mom was a 1st grade teacher for 30 years. When she passed away recently I helped her clean out her mom’s attic and throw away HUNDREDS of gift baskets with soaps, candles, lotions, kitchen towels, etc. Sure, there should be a price limit on teacher gifts. But from the teacher’s perspective, home made cards and crafts are always great. Beyond that, the gift of a gift-card, maybe from the whole class, is far more appreciated by the hard-working teacher you’re trying to honor.