Teachers often spend hundreds of dollars out of pocket each year to supply their classrooms with the basics—from pencils and paper to organizational tools and educational décor. Thankfully, there are proven ways to stretch every dollar without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re a first-year teacher or a seasoned pro, here’s how to stock up smarter and spend less.
Shop During Back-to-School Events
Late summer is the best time to shop for classroom basics. Stores like Target, Walmart, and Office Depot launch their biggest school supply sales in July and August. Watch for doorbuster deals on crayons, notebooks, folders, and glue sticks—many of which drop below $1 per item.
Join Educator Discount Programs
Several major retailers offer exclusive teacher discounts. Examples include:
- Target Circle for Teachers (seasonal bonus savings)
- Michaels Teachers Program (15% off)
- Staples Classroom Rewards (gives back a portion of parents’ purchases to teachers)
- Joann Teacher Discount (15% off year-round)
Signing up is usually free and only requires a school ID or verification through a platform like SheerID.
Use Cashback Apps and Gift Cards
Teachers can double their savings by combining store discounts with cashback tools. Platforms like Rakuten and Ibotta offer rewards on school supply retailers. For example, you can earn cashback with a Target gift card or buy a Staples gift card with cashback before making purchases.
Using these gift cards during back-to-school promos helps stack savings and reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Don’t Overlook Dollar Stores and Bulk Retailers
Places like Dollar Tree or Five Below are goldmines for basics like flashcards, classroom bins, posters, and seasonal items. For larger quantities, consider shopping at Costco or Sam’s Club for tissues, cleaning supplies, or snacks.
Buy in Bundles and Multi-Packs
Many online stores offer teacher-specific bundles for classroom essentials. Amazon and Quill carry curated sets of markers, dry erase boards, and other supplies at a lower cost per item when bought in bulk.
Apply for Local and National Grants
There are dozens of small grant programs designed to support teachers with classroom materials. Sites like DonorsChoose and AdoptAClassroom.org allow educators to crowdfund projects or receive direct funding for supplies.
