You’ve probably received the back-to-school supply list by now, and it’s likely got you feeling a bit exasperated. Alongside the usual crayons, glue, pencils, color-coded folders, and five-ring binders, there are additional items like boxes of tissues, hand sanitizer, and dry erase markers.
If your children are in high school, you may have ditched the supply list entirely and only received a reading list. Perhaps you feel relieved not to have to hunt down hand sanitizer this year.
But hold on—there’s a reason to reconsider that relief. What teachers genuinely require may not be included on that list.
As the spouse of a dedicated teacher, I urge you to take a closer look at that supply list and reach out to your child’s teacher. A simple email asking, “Is there anything else you need? I suspect you often buy your own printer cartridges. What kind do you use?” will elicit heartfelt gratitude. They won’t forget your kindness.
Consider Sending Extra Supplies
One of the most pressing needs is paper. Consider sending an extra ream of paper with your child on the first day of school—just tuck two reams into their backpack instead of the one requested. Add a sticky note saying, “Here’s some paper to kick off the new year.” Just a heads up: your child’s teacher might get emotional over this gesture, and if they don’t, their partner will certainly appreciate it later when they learn about the teacher’s out-of-pocket expenses for supplies. Most educators regularly find themselves at stores like Target, picking up paper, as the district rarely covers the full costs. This issue is widespread.
When you’re out shopping for school supplies, consider picking up extra items if your budget allows. After all, teachers often buy supplies for students who can’t afford them. Many kids show up with little more than a backpack and a pencil, leaving teachers to shoulder the burden of providing necessary supplies. I once saw a principal loading up a cart with 5-cent folders; I had to give her a hug.
Addressing Hunger in the Classroom
Another crucial area is hunger. It’s a significant barrier to learning—about 1 in 5 children face food insecurity in the U.S. Many teachers stock non-perishable snacks like granola bars in their classrooms to help those who miss out on free meals. If you’re concerned about child hunger, consider sending in some snacks or even checking with the school about covering delinquent lunch accounts.
Gift Cards for Supplies
Gift cards to office supply stores can also be immensely helpful. While coffee shop gift cards are nice, a gift card for office supplies allows teachers to replenish the items they often buy themselves. From post-its to staplers, the list is extensive. Consider purchasing a gift certificate to a local office supply store; it could help your child’s teacher acquire much-needed materials for their classroom.
The Financial Burden on Teachers
Teachers don’t ask for luxuries; their needs are often overwhelming. Reports show that most teachers spend at least $500 on supplies, with some spending over $1,000 annually. This disparity is troubling, especially when you consider their salaries. Offering assistance beyond the standard supply list can make a significant impact on their year.
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Conclusion
In summary, supporting teachers during back-to-school season goes beyond the traditional supply list. By providing extra materials, snacks, and thoughtful gift cards, you can truly make a difference in their lives and the education of your child.
Keyphrase: What Teachers Really Need
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