Teachers are some of the most inspiring and influential people in our lives. Yet they’re also some of the most under-appreciated professionals in the world, their enormous social value often going unrecognized. Expressing your gratitude for all that a teacher has done for you, whether it’s school, college, night school or an adult community course, is something that is always worth doing. Thanking your teacher is a great way to let your teacher know just how important his or her impact has been on your life.
1. Take into account your teacher’s usual style. Even a gruff and seemingly distant teacher is likely to be touched by a kind gesture of appreciation, even if he or she isn’t going to show it as much as a more affectionate person. Realize that the majority of people appreciate a thank you for their efforts.
2. Say thank you. A simple but effective approach is to simply go up to your teacher and say thank you for teaching you. Explain how your teacher’s approach to the topic has inspired you and has taught you a way of seeing things that you hadn’t thought of before, or similar reactions. Acknowledge the thought, effort and experience of your teacher where appropriate.
- There are likely to be special occasions that present themselves for a personal thank you, such as at graduation time, at the end of a teaching period or year, or after you’ve received good marks. However, don’t leave saying thank you to a defined time––if you feel inspired to say thank you because you’ve had a eureka moment after a great lesson, then let your teacher know!
3. Send a thank you. If you’re feeling a bit shy about a face-to-face thank you, or you’d simply like to create a more enduring thank you, a written thank you is a good option. There are several ways to do this:
- Hand write a thank you note. You might even like to make the card yourself. A handwritten note is very personal and caring and shows that you’ve gone to the effort of making a thoughtful thank you.
- Write an email expressing your gratitude for your teacher’s service. This can be a good way to stay comfortable without having to say anything face to face.
- Write a thank you letter setting out the things that you’ve felt your teacher has helped you with or inspired you to do. Keep it brief and factual.
- If you’re stuck for things to say, there are proforma letters and thank you notes available by doing a search online. But do personalize your thank you as much as possible––what comes from the heart means the most.
4. Get good grades and maintain them. In some cases this is the only thanks teachers need or even want. By showing that you have understood the work and that you’re willing to take it even further by learning more and applying it well is a very precious gift and a great way to show your thanks.
5. Make or purchase a gift. A small gift can be a nice accompaniment to a thank you. It’s not necessary but it is an easy way to show your appreciation. It needn’t be costly––you can make plenty of items at home if preferred.
6. Tell other people about the important impact this teacher has had on you. Recommend the teacher to other potential students and offer to act as a student reference for your teacher if he or she needs feedback for promotions, etc.
