I've heard of that, and it's a good idea, but the laminating pouches that I use with my laminator make things very sturdy, and I think they will hold up better to continued use. For things that will change - cloze activities, etc., I think I will use the page protectors this year.
I love the New Year's gift idea! I always stock up on the BTS deals, but then I get stingy and resentful for students taking advantage and not being prepared. Now I will just plan on making up goody bags to give out in January when we come back for each student and give with a cheerful spirit instead of a miserly one! I don't typically give Christmas gifts so this will work perfectly!
I always give away the "used" pencils and let the students take home "their" crayons on the last day before Christmas break (and the last day of school, too). Many of my kiddos have few if any pencils at home. Anyway, when we return to school in January, each student has 2 brand new pencils and a new box of crayons on his/her desk!
