This is the true story of a classroom on the south shore of Long Island, NY.  The parents and kids were searching for a meaningful way to express their appreciation for their beloved teacher. Sound familiar? Surely, any family with students can relate. Millions of stressed out parents ended 2020 in a similar way. They met challenges like never before. They had to juggle work demands while keeping their family safe — AND navigating newly home schooled children. And the youngsters! Think about how they have risen to the occasion! After all these months, they are STILL missing out on classroom learning, music, art and sports. Now, take a moment to imagine the lives of the teachers. It’s all of the above PLUS overhauled lesson plans and technology learning curves. Our educators are (and have always been) true heroes. It’s most fitting that we publish this actual thank you note from Ms. M. It stands as a symbol of our collective regard and appreciation for teachers, everywhere. Here is how a class AND a “gifted” teacher says Thank You.

It Started with a Group Gift from eGifter.com

The parents started to plan their surprise in the fall of 2020, before the holiday season. They went to eGifter and set up a group gift. The gift organizer was the class Mom, and she invited others to chip in. There were hundreds of great retail stores choose from. Everyone added personal messages. Parents uploaded handpicked photos. Kids recorded video greetings. Everyone had a good time. Before, during and after the experience, the entire class of parents and children felt closer and more connected.

In the end, Ms. M. was moved to happy tears. It was the moment they’d all been waiting for. As a result, Ms. M. gave her permission to print her Thank You note to the class. It is a shining example of what’s possible when generosity, dedication and kindness prevail.

The story does not end here, where a “gifted” teacher says Thank You. The story continues in the classroom, where learning, commitment and growth take place every single day.