School Supplies

Yey!!!  I stopped by my local Walmart today to grab a few grocery items and happened to stumble upon the almighty prize!

I have no idea when my local store put things out, but supply was low when I made the discovery… so, HURRY!!

I have heard teachers in the past talk about amazing deals prior to the school year, but I have never gotten on the band wagon. Mainly because when I first started teaching I had collected a lot of supplies from “Santa,” plus I could visit a free teacher supply store called Classroom Central. However, this year my supply has dwindled down and when I can get anything for under a dollar I get excited! (I did pass up the 15 cent folders this go-around).

The first thing that caught my attention was the cutesy teacher stuff, so I started there!

I grabbed 2 magnetic writing pads to jot down notes for myself, other teachers, or even parents. I ran out of “Happy Birthday” certificates, so I found some gender neutral cupcake ones (I know, I know, not part of my theme!). Magnetic clips and primary colored mini baskets to help organize centers.  Lastly, I have been searching HIGH and LOW for an index card box- don’t ask. The one I have is durable and running out of space to record great teacher ideas I read/hear about. This one is not so durable, but it was cheap and it’ll do for now. I’ll still continue my search- have no fear!

Then, I noticed some rewards for students, so here are some incentives I picked up.

My kiddies LOVE mini erasers and I have learned over the years to keep them in my care so that they last longer than one week! I utilize my classroom currency (tickets) for students to purchase an eraser- pencil top or mini shape eraser. Lastly, I give my students a “Pen License” when they prove they write neatly and without errors. I begin by awarding the student with a certificate and then an erasable pen. As they continue to prove themselves, they graduate to a nofficial non-erasable pen!

Lastly, I have bitten the forbidden fruit of incorporating a classroom theme. I have fought this concept for quite some time just because I have made my classroom cozy and inviting without a particular theme. Besides, when I hear “theme” I also immediately hear a resounding “cha ching!” in my ears. But, thanks to Walmart I can grab a few things and build from there for quite an affordable price. (Of course, I will be including this receipt with my tax documents! haha) So here is the beginning of my apple/worm theme. I’ll include more pictures as I compile more items for my classroom’s theme. Oh, and without fear, *DREAM BIG* will still be our mantra!!

These items (desk name plates, welcome post card, and a book mark), will be on student’s desks that first day. I am currently looking for pencils that match my theme to complete the first day gift to my students. I’m hoping it won’t be hard to find a worm or apple pencil… after all, those are very “educational” logos!

Before I forget…A BIG shout out to for helping us struggling teachers make our classrooms that much better for our students. We appreciate you! 🙂

What supplies do you need to get for this upcoming school year? What have you gotten your hands on already?

About the author, Gretchen

I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.

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