Shop

It's time to make staff morale a priority! Educators play so many different roles on a daily basis and it’s important to recognize each other and celebrate your colleagues any chance we get.

One of my favorite things to do is recognize the amazing para educators that I get to interact with throughout the school day. These “unsung heros” are often doing so much for us: building good relationships with students, supporting classroom instruction, promoting positive student behavior and so much more. The school year is full of many long days and these days would feel even longer without their support.

Special education teachers, why wait for Paraprofessional Appreciation Day?

Anytime is the perfect time to show our appreciation to instructional assistants!

Below are some of the different options you can use to show your appreciation for para educators (bonus: this is a free download for YOU!):

Paraprofessional Appreciation Sticky Notes

Positive sticky notes are such a great way to show appreciation for paras in an easy and inexpensive way. Check out these simple ideas:

  • Attach to a yummy snack – Grab your para’s favorite drink or snack! The dollar store is a great place to buy sweet treat items on a budget like a candy bar, or a bag of cookies. The perfect gift for me would be a K cup waiting for me! Choose your favorite positive message and simply print the sticky note to use as a free printable gift tag.
  • Decorate a door, office desk, or maybe the teacher's lounge – Print as many affirmations as you’d like and make a colorful collage on your coteacher's door! You could also attach a handful of positive sticky notes to their desk or office space. Walking in to a surprise happy note is a great way to start off the day!
  • Attach to a flair pen, notepad, fun hand sanitizer, or use other favorite school supplies for a fun gift. Celebrate staff members with a small appreciation gift and add a positive message to help them know how much you appreciate all of their hard work.

Need a few more (free) thoughtful gift ideas for showing para appreciation (also great for a teacher appreciation gift idea)?

  • Handwritten notes – Another easy way that I like to show my appreciation for support staff is by taking the time to write individualized notes. At the end of the week, spend a few minutes writing down specific things that each para did that week that made life easier or had a positive impact on our students. Deliver these simple notes to the paraprofessionals at the beginning of the following week – it only takes a few minutes of my time and iot's the perfect way to show appreciation. Every little bit helps!
  • One of the best ways to show your appreciation for your para educators is by simply taking the time to say “thank you” whenever possible. A sincere “thank you” can go a long way in making someone feel appreciated. Whenever possible, make sure to take the time to thank your paras for their hard work and dedication.

Teacher appreciation gifts for coworkers (or substitute school administrators, office staff, or your child's teacher) don't have to be anything fancy, but instead just something to let them know that you are thinking about them and appreciate all they do. Para educators play such an important role in the lives of our students and it is so important to show them appreciation any chance we get.

There are many ways to show your appreciation, from writing individualized notes, giving small gifts, or simply taking the time to say “thank you” whenever possible.

If you’re ready to start spreading some happiness I have the perfect FREEBIE for you!

Here's a printable set of 6 positive sticky notes to help you celebrate the paraprofessional in your life! All you need to do is choose the affirmation you love, grab a bright set of sticky notes and start printing.

Which great idea will you try first?

Be sure to bookmark this blog post to use whenever you need easy DIY teacher gifts and ideas!

About The Author
I'm Jennifer, your advocate for creative and inclusive education. With years of special education expertise and a heart for mentoring teachers, I'm your go-to for resources that matter. Learn more about my mission for Positively Learning here.

Hi there.

I'm Jennifer!

I’m Jennifer and I was a special educator in the elementary school setting over the past decade. I entered the classroom every day dedicated to making learning inclusive AND engaging.

On the Blog

In the Shop

1
    1
    Your Cart

    Differentiation delivered to your inbox