Parents should step away from those fancy packages of tea or coffee and just say “no” to the Santa mugs when holiday shopping for gifts for teachers.

Gift cards – especially those that provide easy access to books or caffeine – are what teachers would like this holiday season.

The Lexington (Ky.) Herald-Leader surveyed 100 teachers, and 48 percent said gift cards would be an ideal present. Book sellers, educational retail stores and Starbucks were the most popular stores cited in the survey, which was distributed by e-mail to teachers who participate in the Herald-Leader Newspapers in Education program.

That’s not to say that teachers aren’t grateful for gifts in any form.

About 12 percent said they were fans of nice-smelling candles and soaps. Some 25 percent said they prefer a surprise.

In other categories, 4 percent said they appreciate baked goods; 3 percent want coffee mugs, and 2 percent enjoy fancy coffee and tea.

Several teachers mentioned that they would like to have something for their classrooms, and many noted that letter or e-mails recognizing their efforts are also appreciated.

“But the very best part about any gift is the note or card from the parents or – students,” said Amy Medina, a teacher of English as a second language at Maxwell Elementary and Jessie Clark Middle schools in Fayette County, Ky.

“I have kept every single one that I have received, in a file at home,” she said. “Actually hearing that I am appreciated is truly the best gift of all.”