An overwhelming majority of teachers cited emotional, rather than material, gifts as the most desirable, according to a survey of school teachers across Russia conducted by the VK Community Department and the NAFI All-Russian Analytical Center. This was reported by Vfokuse mail.

The survey involved 500 school teachers aged 24 to 65.

Over 80% of respondents named a group photo with students, video greetings from them, postcards with personal wishes, creative performances by the class, handmade crafts, and a joint class trip to the cinema or a museum as the best gifts; 72% of respondents considered flowers as such.

Among material gifts, teachers expressed a preference for books (stated by 80% of respondents), stationery (74%), assistance with classroom improvements (70%), tickets to entertainment and cultural events (66%), and 66% also stated they would appreciate receiving coffee and tea.

Of all respondents, 73% believe that the most important aspect of a gift is the sentiment invested in it, and 69% are convinced that the most valuable gifts cannot be purchased in a store.

According to the research data, nine out of ten teachers have a positive attitude towards gifts, with only 10% having a negative one. Furthermore, female teachers are more receptive to expressions of appreciation. Specifically, 47% of female teachers view gifts from students positively, compared to only 26% of male teachers.

The survey also revealed that 35% of teachers continue to receive gifts and expressions of appreciation from former students. The vast majority of surveyed teachers (91%) actively maintain contact with graduates. Although modern technologies, including social networks and messengers, have become the primary channels for communication between teachers and former students, in-person meetings remain important for 44% of surveyed teachers, the survey showed.

The source also notes that, according to Russian law, students and their relatives may not give gifts to employees of educational organizations with a value exceeding 3,000 rubles. However, there is no limit on the number of such gifts.

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