Gifts to Teachers Cannot Exceed $50

To avoid confusion in a season of giving, Superintendent of Schools Jay Cummings has issued a letter to parents spelling out the policy on gifts to teachers.

The policy, which applies to all public employees and was signed into law by Governor Deval Patrick in 2009, sets the following guidelines:

Teachers and other public employees cannot accept gifts with value of $50 or more. This includes both cash gifts and items of that value or more, such as tickets, gift certificates or services.

A class gift is allowed, with a value of no more than $150. This gift must be presented as a gift from the class, without disclosing the names of those who donated.

Organizations such as the Grafton Education Alliance or parent-teacher groups are exempt from these laws. Contributions to these groups can be made in the name of a staff member.

Classroom gifts such as supplies and books are also exempt from these laws.