Amid planning for the new school year, you are likely trying to figure out how to fill your supply gap with coins from your own piggy bank. When it comes to back-to-school shopping, teachers nationwide often foot the bill for classroom school supplies in some capacity.
Shopping for supplies to furnish an entire classroom can be expensive, thus it is crucial for teachers to find ways to save. Below are some ways that you can be cost effective by saving money on back-to-school supplies.
Take Inventory Before You Shop
Start by checking your classroom for supplies you already have on hand. You might just hit the jackpot by digging through last year’s stash. Markers, crayons, scissors, and pencils can usually be reused, along with folders and binders that are still in good shape.
Take Advantage of Free School Supplies
When it’s back-to-school time, businesses and non-profit organizations often hold events where teachers can receive free school supplies. Do some research to find out when and where free supplies are available for educators in your area and take advantage of these events.
There are also fundraising websites like Donors Choose where you can raise money for supplies and technology. Teachers all over the country have received donations from businesses and individuals who want to support education through these websites.
Shop Early
The earlier you shop, the better. Do not wait until the week before school starts because you’ll find the shelves empty and the prices skyrocket. Many stores like Target start their sales in July, so take advantage of these sales. Even if you don’t have your official supply list just yet, you can still stock up on supplies you know your classroom will need, like pencils, folders, crayons, and paper.
Compare Prices
Prices can vary, and oftentimes, many stores will have items listed cheaper online than in the actual store. Here’s a quick tip if you’re shopping in-store at Target. Open your Target app and click on the scanner in the upper right corner of the app. Scan the item while you’re in the store, and if it’s cheaper than Target will price match it for you when you check out.
Prices can also vary depending on where you shop for supplies. One store may list crayons for .50 cents, whereas another store may have them on sale for .25 cents. Take the time to look online and check flyers. Many stores will offer price matching, but it’s your job to do the work and go the extra mile to ask customer service to match the price.
Shop at Discount Retailers
Retailers like the Dollar Store, Dollar General, Family Dollar, and Five Below all have basic items like pencils, pens, highlighters, and erasers for a fraction of the cost. You can grab items such as these or locker accessories without having to overspend.
Buy in Bulk
If you are a teacher and are shopping for your classroom as well as your own children, then buying in bulk may make sense for you. Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s are all great retailers that offer multipacks of pencils and pens, glue sticks, and paper at a great price.
If you don’t have a lot of children to buy for but still love the idea of buying in bulk, then you either save the extra items for next year or ask a coworker if they want to split the cost between classrooms.
Choose Generic Brands
If name-brand supplies are not required, then buy generic because it will save you a lot of money. Store brands are often of identical quality for a fraction of the price. Items like crayons, markers, color pencils, scissors, glue, highlighters, and even paper will be cheaper.
Use Store Loyalty Programs and Coupons
If you’re a member of a store’s loyalty program, take advantage of the extra discounts, coupons, or cashback offers. Some stores will even send personalized deals based on your shopping history. Before you head to checkout, do a quick search for online promo codes or printable coupons. It only takes a minute and can save you a few extra dollars on the total.
Solicit Donations from Businesses
Businesses that use office supplies sometimes have new and gently used supplies to spare. Many have been known to throw out perfectly good binders, file folders, etc., because they have served their purpose within the company (I know, the horror!). Write a brief letter to a local business or other business that you have a connection to and request a donation of any unwanted supplies.
Make Trash Your Treasure (DIY)
Teachers have a knack for finding the usefulness in things, even when they seem disposable. Things that people may throw away, like glass jars, cans, egg cartons, and wire hangers, just to name a few, can be repurposed in your classroom. Embrace your inner teacher nerd and collect these items from your family and friends when possible.
Take Advantage of Tax-Free Weekends
Many states offer tax-free weekends for school-related purchases. During these times, you can buy clothing, shoes, and school supplies without paying sales tax. Depending on where you live, this could save you quite a bit, especially if you’re buying higher-ticket items. Check your state’s official website to find out when the tax-free weekend is and what items qualify. You can also look on Nerd wallet to see if your state has an official tax-free weekend.
Shopping and purchasing back-to-school supplies doesn’t have to empty your wallet. With a few smart strategies like buying generic, using loyalty programs, price-matching, and shopping early, you can avoid overspending. Every little bit saved adds up in how to save money during back to school season.
