Dear Maggie —
I don’t know if it’s just my house or if there’s some kind of seasonal phenomenon happening, but I’m pretty sure we’ve entered the “End of Year Spiral”. My kids are clearly OVER school at this point, and every morning feels like I’m trying to wake a group of disgruntled retirees who have simply had enough of the system. There are groans, dramatic sighs, and at least one child questioning the very concept of education. I’ve heard “I hate school,” “Why do we even have to go?” and a passionate monologue about how early mornings are “unnatural” for growing bodies. Honestly, it’s a lot before 8:00am. I’m doing my best to power through, but the daily chorus of complaints is wearing me down. And while I’m dealing with a small cast of characters, I cannot fathom what our teachers are walking into each morning—a full room of tiny, overtired, and surly philosophers staging a quiet protest against learning. When I drop my kids off, I feel like I should also be dropping off a gift basket, a handwritten apology, and possibly a medal of honor. Which brings me to my question—purely hypothetical, of course, and definitely not about me—but if a parent were feeling deeply indebted to the teaching staff this time of year for their patience, grace, and general willingness to keep showing up… what’s the best way to say “thank you” in a meaningful (and possibly guilt-reducing) way?
— Guilty Gary
Dear Guilty –
Ah yes, the annual “Why must I learn things?” tour—performed daily in kitchens across America, usually before coffee has had a chance to do its job. What you’re experiencing is a completely normal late-spring condition known as Academic Fatigue with a Side of Dramatic Sighing. Symptoms include selective amnesia about how to tie shoes independently, a deep philosophical opposition to mornings, and the sudden belief that school is optional. You’re not alone. In fact, if you listen closely at drop-off, you can almost hear a chorus of tiny grumbles echoing across the parking lot.
But Gary, here’s the good news: your guilt has impeccable timing. You are in luck, because Teacher Appreciation Week is right around the corner at the beginning of May—and plans are already in motion to shower our heroic, caffeine-powered educators with the love they so richly deserve. Even better? You (and your “friend”) can absolutely join in.
There will be all sorts of opportunities to help—think flower arranging and refreshments where teachers can channel their inner florist, an ice cream buffet (because obviously), a traveling snack cart stocked with favorites, and even a festive after-school happy hour with Mexican snacks and margaritas. There’s also a raffle in the works, so contributions like gift cards or fun items are very welcome. If you’d like to help with any of these efforts—or toss a little something into the raffle pot—reach out to Allyson Nolle at allyson.p.nolle@gmail.com. She will happily plug you in somewhere and, as a bonus, help you assuage that lingering parental guilt.
And now, for those ready to go above and beyond (or those whose children have really leaned into the morning dramatics), JA in a Day still needs about ten volunteers. This is your chance to step into the classroom and deliver Junior Achievement lessons for a day, giving teachers a well-earned break while you get a front-row seat to the magic they work daily. No teaching degree required—just a willingness to follow a lesson plan and perhaps answer at least one wildly off-topic question. You can find all the details and sign up here: https://stmargaretstl.org/news/school/2026/03/volunteers-needed-for-ja-in-a-day/
So instead of feeling guilty, consider this your official invitation to turn that appreciation into action. Because while your kids may be over school… their teachers are not over showing up for them every single day—and that’s worth celebrating (preferably with snacks).
Hang in there—and maybe hide the cereal spoons until everyone puts on their shoes.
— Maggie
