Shout Out Ramsey's Best Teachers

Tuesday marks National Teacher Appreciation Day. In addition to bringing in apples and being on their best behavior all week, Patch wants to give local kids the chance to shout out their teachers, and let the community know why they are great.

Whether you are (or were) a student in the Ramsey school district, St. Paul’s Interparochial School, go to Don Bosco Prep, or another local private school, let us know which teacher you will be appreciating this week, and why, in the comments section below.

And, if you want to go above and beyond this year, here are some suggestions for how you can say ‘thanks’ to your special teacher this week.

1. Starbucks card or gift card to any store/restaurant they enjoy.
2. Gift card to Bookends in Ridgewood. Teachers love to be able to purchase new books for their classrooms. Plus, odds are an author your teacher loves may be stopping by for a book signing.
3. DIY gift. Homemade soaps, candy, cookies, jewelry, bookmarks or even just a nice homemade card or notes usually rate pretty high with teachers. 
4. Group class art project. Try something like a large platter that everyone in class can decorate or sign.
5. Give a donation in their honor to their favorite charity.
6. Have parents contribute to a group gift of a gift certificate for a special activity the teacher can enjoy with his or her friends or family, such as a special date night at one of the great restaurants along Main Street or Route 17.
7. Potted plants. Spring is here, so Secor Farms in Mahwah is open for business everyday. Or, pick up a bouquet at Peter's.
8. Reduce his or her stress with a class pass to Yoga Synthesis or one month membership to the Sweat Gym or Retro Fitness.
9. Take a photo of each child in the class and ask him or her, “What do you appreciate the most about your teacher?” Assemble the photos with the student quotes and each student’s name into a collage and have it framed at Michael's. 
10. Cater your teacher's or school staff member’s lunch for a day or a week. 

Submit your questions or news tips to jessica.mazzola@patch.com. And, remember to sign up for Ramsey Patch's daily newsletter, and get updates on Facebook and Twitter.