Coupon Queen: Thanking school staff budget-friendly

Summer break is almost here, and my kids aren't the only ones excited. Everyone is ready for a slower pace and sunny days. But before the final bell rings, I want to appreciate the people who helped our kids succeed this school year. Last week, for Teacher's Appreciation Week, instead of focusing on individual teacher gifts, I decided to do something a little different. I stopped at the store, stocked up on fun snacks and tasty drinks, and put together a large fruit tray for the staff lounge at my kids' high school. I wanted to celebrate the whole staff. Of course, I appreciate the teachers who have directly impacted my boys over the years, but I also wanted to recognize the many people behind the scenes who help make a school run every day. The office staff who answer frantic parent phone calls. The lunch monitors who keep order in a noisy cafeteria. The custodians who clean up endless messes. The aides, administrators, counselors, and support staff often work quietly in the background. So many adults play a role in shaping my boys' school experience, even if I've never met them personally. Teacher and staff appreciation doesn't have to be expensive to be meaningful. Sometimes the simplest gestures are the ones people remember most. If you'd like to thank the school staff in your life before summer break, here are a few budget-friendly ideas. A handwritten card still goes a long way, and a thoughtful note from a parent or student can mean more than an expensive gift. Encourage your child to write about a favorite memory from the school year or a moment when a teacher helped them feel encouraged or supported. Teachers cherish these and often keep them for years. Gift cards are always practical and appreciated because they allow teachers and staff to choose what they truly need. Coffee shops, bookstores, grocery stores, and big-box retailers are all useful options. Look for gift card bonus deals at local restaurants or pop into Giant Eagle to earn perks for your gift card purchase. Food is another easy way to brighten someone's day. If you know your teacher well, stop in and grab their favorite coffee drink or snack. If you want to go a bit bigger, you can grab some individually packaged snacks that teachers can grab between classes. Buying in bulk at warehouse clubs can help keep costs manageable if you're contributing for a larger group. One of my favorite things to do, and it doesn't cost a penny, is brag about your teachers or staff members. In the past, I've sent a quick email to the principal or superintendent to let them know about someone who made a difference in my child's life this year. A few kind words and specific examples can really mean a lot, especially at the end of a long school year. As this school year ends, let's remember the many people who help our schools run smoothly every single day. Teaching and supporting students is one of the hardest jobs out there, and a little appreciation can make a big difference. This week's deal Here's a deal that you can grab at Walgreens.Select Kellogg's Cereal — $1.99 Rachel Krych is passionate about helping others spend less and save more. In addition to her weekly column, she has a blog, Couponing With Rachel, which earns her compensation from Google for ads it places there, and from entertainment marketers whose promotional codes she touts. She doesn't write about entertainment in her column. Email her at rachelkrych@gmail.com