I always do gift cards for teachers, even if it is just $5 to a fast food place, coffee house, or Blockbuster. I have a lot of friends that are teachers and they have closets full of lotions, soaps, candles, mugs and jewelry that they cannot use. Lots of people are allergic to scented lotions or are sensitive to smells. Unless you know your teacher's preferences, I would stick with the gc and let them enjoy lunch, coffee or a movie rental on you.