One of my sisters was a high school English teacher; the other teaches 5th grade. I used to facilitate training workshops for hotel managers. The three of us had a discussion about gifts at one point. Our perspective was the same.
We were all in the field of educating because we were jazzed by helping others on their way to success. The icing on the cake was when a student or parent (or in my case, a hotel owner) thanked us, either verbally or through written correspondence. Giving specifics helps us understand what we are doing well.
What is even better is learning how the knowledge we imparted at the time impacts their lives down the road. All three of us have experienced former students telling us how what they learned in class was a benefit, be it in college or in the real world. That is the most valuable gift.
As for tangible presents, be it from an individual or a group, I’m going to be blunt. The intent is appreciated, but the effect poses problems. Some of the gifts will never be used. Some will be passed on to others, be it to someone who will use it or as a gag gift. Others get tossed in the bin. There comes a point in a teacher’s career where the unused and unappreciated gifts need to go.
Another perspective is that each gift, be it from an individual or group, deserves a thank-you note. While not all teachers may adhere to this rule of etiquette, we did. It takes time, effort and money.
If a parent or student wants to give the best gift, let it be a note or letter on how what they learned in a teacher’s class positively impacted their life.