INDIANAPOLIS — Teacher Appreciation Week has taken on a special meaning this year as teachers are adapting to online learning.
It takes some creativity to figure out how gifts can reach teachers right now as they continue to teach remotely.
"I'm not going to lie, I am a little depressed just because I miss my big babies," fifth grade teacher Dominique Donald said.
She says she always looks forward to Teacher Appreciation Week because it's a chance to feel some love from her students.
"You're dealing with attitudes problems and behaviors and sometimes you just feel unappreciated, so this week the kids step up and its not about buying things," Donald said. "They will make drawings or poems, it is meaningful and it touches your heart."
Because of the social distancing restrictions in place, Donald sees it from both perspectives, both as a teacher and a parent.
"It is kind of hard with social distancing trying to get gifts arranged," Donald said. "I have a son so I was trying to get flowers sent to my son's teacher and it was kind of hard."
Karen Routt, who works with School on Wheels, says she's noticed some parents have a new found appreciation for teachers since students are home more.
"I was appreciative of social media even doing adopt a teacher because I at least got flowers yesterday and it warmed my heart," Routt said.
Whether it's a special delivery or a thank you email, Donald says the thought this week speaks volume.
