Our PTO designates $50 per retiring teacher. For the past few years we have given out directors chairs with the teacher's first name embroidered on the back. The chair and the name are done in our school colors.
In keeping with the ongoing "tradition" of getting a gift for our retiring teachers, we usually purchase the same type of item for each retiree each year. We go to "Things Remembered" and purchase a photo album and have it engraved. Usually two officers will go to the retirement dinner and present the gifts of behalf of the organization to the teachers.
We have never been asked to purchase a gift but do offer to provide a reception for any retiring staff.
The irony of commitment is that it’s deeply liberating-in work, in play, in love. The act frees you from the tyranny of your internal critic, from the fear that likes to dress itself up and parade around as rational hesitation. To commit is to remove your head as the barrier to your life. --Anne Morris