School is almost done for the summer but teachers are already thinking about the fall. At the top of their list is saving money on back-to-school supplies with shrinking budgets and increased expectations. Making every dollar go farther is more important now than ever before. Below are a handful of tips that can help.
- Think outside the box. There are several websites that educators can post their classroom wish lists of educational games, classroom learning tools, equipment and books to that match donors with teachers. Adopt-a-classroom.com, donorschoose.org, and supplyourschools.org just to name a few. Also consider free gently used products such as audiovisual equipment, posters, rolling carts and more from freecycle.com. These items may need to be picked up so remember to look locally first.
- Get parents involved! Build relationships with your students parents. Early in the year open up to them and share your teaching philosophy and classroom plans, help them understand what projects you'd like to complete, how the students will benefit, and what materials and supplies are required. You'll be surprised at how many will volunteer help without you even asking. Another suggestion: post a supplies wish list during parent-teacher meetings that parents can review while waiting.
- Quality over quantity. With electronics, floor mats, storage cabinets and shelving, quality makes a big difference. Sure the costs are higher up front but you'll save more over time because the equipment will last longer.
- Don't wait. Make your classroom wish lists and your students' supply list available to parents as early as possible. Most parents are great bargain hunters and getting them informed early lets them spread expenses over time and shop sales.
- Talk with a office supply store like eofficedirect.com. More often than not there are very creative solutions to help outfit your classroom and get the best bang for your buck. Talk with eofficedirect.com about what you need and they will find a way to help.
Right now is the perfect time to start planning for the new school year. Create those wish lists today and start shopping and saving for the fall.