Great teachers go above and beyond for their students. Students benefit from those efforts in the classroom, but many adults also can name at least one educator whose lessons and enthusiasm for learning have benefited them long after the final bell rang on their academic careers.

The efforts of teachers who go the extra mile for their students are worthy of recognition and appreciation. Families that want to express their gratitude can do so in various number of ways.

Students or parents may consider writing a thank you note to a teacher. Personal letters may not be as common as they once were, but they remain a thoughtful way to express gratitude and appreciation to people who have had a positive impact on a person's life.

Parents may pitch in at school when the opportunity presents itself. For example, a teacher might ask for volunteers to assist with holiday parties or special school events, or they may request help obtaining extra school supplies or items needed for a particular project. Parents can express their appreciation for teachers by responding with enthusiasm to requests for supplies. When responding, parents can ask teachers if there is anything else they can do to help and offer to volunteer their services during class parties.

Students and their families may also organize a class gift around the holiday season or at the end of the year. By pooling their resources, families can let teachers know their efforts have not gone unnoticed. Possible gifts include a gift certificate to a local restaurant or tickets to a show.

Families may also contact administrators at the school by email or phone to let them know a teacher has made a positive impact on a child and is appreciated.

Many teachers go to great lengths to support their students. Families can recognize those efforts in a host of meaningful ways.