Being an elementary teacher myself I can’t speak for all districts, but I do know that my district is cutting back on supplies. I have 20 students, but was only given 10 whiteboard markers. I was supplied with very little supplies for my class.
School districts are cutting back and teachers are as well. In the past teachers wouldn’t think twice about buying 20 boxes of tissue, one for each student. Today times are different and everyone is cutting back. As a parent, it is very important to donate a supply or two to your child’s class.
How to Know What Supplies to Give
Teachers sometimes aren’t used to asking for donations. Start by telling the teacher that you would like to make a donation to the class supplies and ask what is needed for the class. Often craft donations are appreciated during the holiday season. You can also ask your child what the class needs. Observant children notice when there is no soap or tissue in the class.
Essential Supplies that are Almost Always Needed
A box is tissue
A box of tissue goes fast during cold season when a class full of students have runny noses.
Liquid soap
Liquid soap also goes quickly because students should be washing their hands during the day.
Pencils
Pencils are always welcomed as students seem to lose pencils quickly.
A Gift Card to Target or Walmart is a Great Idea
When a gift card is given the teacher is able to use it when supplies run low. The teacher will be able to buy what is needed at that time.
Supplies Show Your Child That you Care About Their Education
When you make a donation to your child’s classroom you are showing them that you care about them and you care about their school. Giving and helping others is an important characteristic that you want to teach your child. When you donate a small, inexpensive supply to your child’s class you are teaching them how to help others. When a child donates a supply to my class I use a sharpie pen and write “Thank You Tommy!” to show my appreciation. Tommy then feels proud to see his name on the supply and know that he contributed to the class.
Teachers Remember and Appreciate When Donations are Given to the Class
Teachers really do appreciate when supplies are donated to the class. When you donate to the class, you are making a big difference in the education of your child and the rest of the children in the class. Even the smallest supply donation makes a big difference. Remember that sharing is caring. Sometimes giving a supply to a class may seem small, but it really is a big thing.
