A teacher has sparked discussion by revealing some of the gifts she prefers not to receive from her students.
Gifts for teachers are quite common during Teacher Appreciation Week or Christmas, often chosen by parents to show appreciation for their children’s educators.
Elementary school teacher Natalie shared a gift guide that stirred some controversy.
In a now-viral video Natalie posted last year, she outlined three gifts that teachers might not appreciate as tokens of gratitude.
“Number one: anything in a Victoria’s Secret bag,” she stated.
“I don’t care that you didn’t get them underwear, that lotion smells bad and now you have a Victoria’s Secret bag on your desk.
“It’s just awkward.”
The second item Natalie mentioned was a ‘giant treat for the whole class’ without prior notice.
She elaborated: “Listen, it’s cool that you want to get everybody donuts but you need to ask ahead when and if the teacher is okay with that.”
Natalie noted that such treats give students a ‘giant sugar high’ followed by a crash.
“It’s just way too much sugar, especially for the little guys,” she added.
For her third point, Natalie advised against making unwelcome advances towards teachers.
“I’ve had a few dads try to come on to me over the years and it is uncomfortable,” she said.
She emphasized that maintaining a professional relationship with parents is crucial since she interacts with them for an entire school year.
“Maybe go online and find someone,” Natalie suggested.
The video prompted mixed reactions online, with some arguing that she should appreciate all gifts she receives.
“Or just say thank you and show some gratitude,” one person advised.
https://www.tiktok.com/@username/video/7229122492915305770
Regarding the mention of Victoria’s Secret gifts, another teacher said: “I got a fragrance set from VS and it was the best gift I’ve gotten as a teacher.”
Similarly, a school bus driver shared: “I’m a school bus driver and my favorite gift this year was a VS perfume.”
Many expressed contentment with receiving ‘anything’ as a gift.
On the other hand, some TikTok users sided with Natalie and supported her comments.
“All the people getting salty in the comments, have to actually watch the video, all reasonable requests!” one user wrote.
“Everyone is hating but like… I agree with her,” another commented.