That's exactly why I do it. I know how far that $100 can go, but I really don't care if she spends it on the classroom or not. She deserves it!

I make a regular habit of giving money this way. I've been doing it since my son was in daycare. Sometimes I can only swing $50 at Christmas, but I also gave my son's kindergarten teacher a thank you card at the end of the year with $30, and then when school started this year we donated some extra supplies to his classroom.

I am the furthest thing from wealthy. But my dad has always been a staunch supporter of giving cash, and I think it's better than trying to guess what someone likes or wants. Plus people get excited when they get money. At least I do!