<p>Since Kindergarten I have always given my teachers gifts at the holidays and at the end of the year, just as a thank you (and we all know that teachers make very little). So here's the question, do you think giving teacher something equivalent to cash (like the Visa cards you can use anywhere or American Express Gift Cheques) is unethical. I do not want to expect any special treatment for favoritism, I just like doing nice things for people who need it and am lucky enough to have the financial backing to do it.</p>
<p>So conflict of interest or not?</p>
<p>hmm... I never give gifts so I'm not sure.</p>
<p>give them whatever you want but make it anonymous.</p>
<p>At my school (high school) just about everyone gives these gifts. They go from paper weights to fish to gift certs, and it's all done in the open.</p>
<p>If other people give gifts and you don't feel too uncomfortable go ahead. I think people can tell from your demeanor when you want special treatment and when you're just being nice. do you go to a private school by the way - I definitely don't see that here!</p>
<p>Pubic School, but a VERY good (like thirty something in the country), wealthy public school (don't take that the wrong way, I'm framing the question)</p>