‘I’ve seen firsthand how hard my colleagues work every single day. Working with children is much harder than people think.’

Romina Keper, Long Beach

“I’ve been a school speech pathologist for 13 years. I’ve seen firsthand how hard my colleagues work every single day. Working with children is much harder than people think. Between social, emotional and academic needs, there’s a lot to juggle at once. Teachers sometimes get overlooked and should be celebrated more. We love mugs and gift cards, but I’ve always felt there has to be a better way for parents to show their appreciation for the people who work with their children every day. Teachers love puns, and I decided to create something based on the popular trend gift of a charcuterie board.

I like to think he’d be proud to see me making things with my hands … things that brighten people’s days.

“I was putting together a retirement gift for a teacher’s party, and I thought, wouldn’t it be cute if it had school supplies on it instead of food? And just like that, CharTEACHerie gift boards were born. I always wanted to do something with my hands like my father, as well as generate some extra income because living on Long Island is incredibly expensive. Starting this business has been a tribute to my dad, who passed away two years ago. Designing these boards became a therapeutic process where I channeled my grief into something productive and meaningful for others.

“Making things brought him peace, so it was DIY all day every day in our house, aka ‘mini Home Depot.’ I like to think he’d be proud to see me making things with my hands, too, things that brighten people’s days, just like the little creations he’d put together for us, whether it was a table, swing or playhouse. It almost feels like we’re making the boards together. I’ve been in business for over a year and a half and sold over 220 gift boards thus far. I’ve donated several raffle gift boards to things like PTA nights, fundraisers, churches, networking events and continuing education conferences. I include commonly used school supplies and customize it with a personal element based on what the teacher likes and needs, like a favorite color, hobby or TV show. Balancing it all is challenging, but I love knowing that the gift is going to someone who needs the recognition, like the first one into school in the morning and the last one to leave. The best part is knowing that it’s going to someone who deserves it.”

Interviewed by Liza Burby