Sometimes there is a tradition in place, if you look around. My DS’s JROTC classroom had pendants around the room for colleges/military branches where former students had matriculated.
Very sad to think kids don’t have a close relationship with their GC or teachers to the point it would feel odd or unnecessary to give them a gift, but of course I realize that is the case at many schools. Yes, my students gave gift cards and thank you notes to GC and teachers that did recommendations. Can’t imagine not doing that - they work many extra hours to get this stuff done and the teacher recs - I know many are written at home on their weekends. They were always available for any kind of questions the kids or I had.They deserve some kudos for all they do.
@CADREAMIN Is your name from that song by mommas & papas? I love that song.
What do the counselors do with 100s of Naviance printouts - like personally sort through to compile an accepted/denied/matriculated master list for the year? I’m surprised Naviance doesn’t allow the high school’s administrator to compile all of their seniors via the site’s admin controls.
Guidance counselor here. I would say I get thanked by about 5% of my students. And yes, I am just “doing my job” and don’t have an expectation - but it is nice to be thanked and appreciated. Same goes for your teachers! I don’t think the average student or parent has any idea just how much time and effort we put in to advising and helping students with their applications, essays, and letters of recommendation.
I think it is a lovely gesture to show appreciation for those who have helped you. My favorite things to receive are a handwritten thank you note or a pennant from your college to hang in my office. I also have a pretty awesome collection of college t-shirts and hoodies.
My own kid is headed off to college in the fall and yes, I will be sending both his GC and his math teacher a note of appreciation and a small gift (plant for the GC and a sweatshirt from his college for the math teacher).
My D’s guidance counselor has, we feel, gone above and beyond for her many times. My philosophy is that if someone has done an outstanding job, you should tell their boss. RIght now we are still waiting to hear back from most of the schools D has applied to, so our opinion may change before this is over ;), but my plan is to send a note to the superintendent and principal pointing out the counselor’s extra efforts on my kid’s behalf.
I think it’s weird to only come out of the woodwork if you get into your first choice or an elite college. Their level of effort was the same either way. A thank you note with possibly a token gift card or something is a nice year end gesture for those who’ve helped you on your path.
My daughter is planning on giving the people who wrote her umpteen recommendations for college and scholarships a nice thank you note and small coffee shop gift card.
Even though she was a hindrance most times, the guidance counselor will get one. The records lady, who knew how to actually produce transcripts (unlike the guidance counselor), is also getting one.
@MusakParent my counselor wasn’t helpful, at all. my mum is just really “extra” and likes to be nice to everyone