It’s that time of year again—time to get gifts for your child’s favorite teachers, faculty, and staff before the summer starts. And make no mistake; those other staff members that are often forgotten—from secretaries to janitors to cooks and everyone in between—are just as important in your child’s life. After all, it takes a village to raise a child, and before we had schools, it was the community itself in which the child grew and learned (a method that many homeschoolers still prescribe to). These staff members are part of your child’s community, and deserve to be thanked just as much as his or her teacher does.

I can remember several special relationships I shared with staff members at my school. One cafeteria worker, the mother of a friend, was always there to help us with our Student Council events, or just to give us a smile on a bad day. She was very quiet but her presence was so comforting and non-judgmental that it was something we came to depend on. A janitor, James, was particularly special to not just me but my entire class in the sixth grade; he used to pop in and help us with anything from art show pieces to our broken microwave, as well as to share popcorn with us. And I don’t know what I’d have done without the handful of secretaries in high school who helped me make copies, announcements, and even excuses when I needed them; they were like my school mother hens.

So while you are making homemade gifts or out purchasing something special for teachers this May, be sure to remember the staff as well. While a teacher serves around 30 to 180 kids, depending upon his or her subject, staff members serve the entire school—teachers and students both. (With that thought in mind, also remember the art, music, and PE teachers, especially if your child is fond of them.)

Some gifts you might want to consider for staff members include…

• Something handmade and from the heart, perhaps with your child’s photo and the year on it, or a heartfelt card featuring words of appreciation.
• Baked goods—though many schools discourage them if they are homemade due to allergies or potentially harmful ingredients.
• Plants, flowers, or gift baskets are usually good gifts for most people, as long as allergies don’t get in the way.
• A gift card for the store or to go out to eat somewhere. Many people aren’t able to make it to Applebee’s or wherever like they used to these days (my own family included!) and this gift will help give them a special night out.
• Something personal would be best. Maybe your daughter knows the janitor likes to wear special scarves, or a secretary has a thing for Bon Jovi. Just knowing that you are known by someone else—that they took the time to get something personal and especially to get to know you—is one of the best feelings to be had.