Gratitude
Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” – William Arthur Ward

Feeling gratitude is a gift itself, but the gift is shared exponentially when we tell those who help us that it made a difference for us and are able to share that publicly. When showing gratitude is encouraged and made a part of the culture, the opportunities for giving and receiving this gift are endless. This kit will provide several ways to show gratitude to those who make our schools what they are, especially those who may not always be recognized for what they do.

If you need more of the buttons, tokens, journals, or postcards, they are available at JostensRenaissance.com/store or contact your Jostens representative.

Unsung Hero Buttons (Bag of 20)
Every school has countless unsung heroes that impact students every day, from bus drivers to janitors to aides. Give them this button along with a handwritten card of appreciation, or have a monthly "Unsung Hero Award" and give a gift card and this button to the winner. Be sure to tell their stories in your newsletter or on social media to set an expectation for the whole community of appreciating everyone.

Tokens of Appreciation (Bag of 50)
Develop a system of simple rewards and use these tokens as immediate, unexpected recognition of good deeds seen around the school. Have students exchange them for school clothing or privileges, so you have a steady supply available.

Idea Exchange Flyer: Tokens of Appreciation (1)
This idea from our Idea Exchange includes suggestions for using the tokens as a tangible measure of gratitude. Renaissance is all about sharing great ideas, and the Idea Exchange is where you can find descriptions and photos from schools across the country. Visit the Idea Exchange on JostensRenaissance.com for many more!

Gratitude Journal (1)
Sometimes the classic exercises are classics for good reason. Use this sweet journal each night to record three things for which you are grateful. The bright color will keep it from getting lost in your bag or briefcase. Makes a great gift for a Renaissance coordinator or leadership team member.

Gratitude Coloring Page (Template and 1 pack of 50)
Make it easy for students to express themselves and express gratitude to teachers and others in the school at the same time. Use the printed sheets and then use the template to make your own copies, cut them into the four designs and have students color them. Make a colorful gratitude mural by posting them on a bulletin board or in the hallway leading to the teachers’ lounge. Download the template here.

Color Me Grateful Postcards (Pack of 100)
A little reflection on what has gone well this year could be great motivation to keep that feeling going. Have students use these postcards to write meaningful thank you notes to teachers or use them yourself to thank peers and staff.

Idea Exchange Flyer: Color Me Grateful Postcards (1)
This idea from our Idea Exchange includes suggestions for how to use these postcards across the school.

Gratitude Meme (Download)
Use on Twitter, Facebook, emails, or your district/school website to thank your school’s unsung heroes. Download the JPEG file here.

Need More? For additional items from the kit, contact your Jostens rep or email: renaissance@jostens.com.