At our school, we give gifts to our parents that have served on the board when their youngest student is graduating from 6th grade (We're a K-6 school). We also gift retireing staff. Some years we have 4-6 other years we have 1 or 2. We present the gifts at our Volunteer lunch at the end of the school year.
People help because they want to help their own kids. Most understand it is a thankless job. Our PTO usually just purchases a nice card (with our own money) and has everyone write a little something to say goodbye. No gifts are purchased (we have a really large school and that would just break the bank)we do purchase a gift for our outgoing President and it is usually something personal (gift certificate to dinner or something the whole family could enjoy--God knows the family sacrificed while serving as President)we take up a collection from our Exec Board, $5-$10 each so it is always under $100. Something free but heartfelt is always nice, like a huge banner saying "We'll miss you" or "Thank you for all you've done" displayed at the school always makes someone feel proud. Cards from the kids are nice too. Good Luck.
Does anyone else purchase gifts for parents that are 'retiring' from the PTO due to kids moving up to another school? Is, so, do you have any ideas of dollar amount spent and creative ideas? Also, any ideas for a gift for outgoing PRes. would be appreciated! Thanks!