| As a schoolteacher, you know you struggle with the | | | | supplies? This is something you want to discuss with |
| decision of how much money to spend each year on | | | | your school before you head out and spend your own |
| your classroom and student supplies. Especially in | | | | money. Some schools are more than happy to give |
| these hard times, the more money you can keep in | | | | you all the supplies you need. If not, they are at least |
| your pocket the better off you will be. | | | | willing to reimburse you for some or all of the money |
| Here are several tips for saving on teaching supplies: | | | | that you put out. At the very least you should ask |
| 1. Know what you want and stick to it. While there are | | | | about this. You may find that you have been spending |
| many "wish list" items every teacher would love to | | | | your own money when you don't really need to. |
| have in their classroom, it is important to stay within | | | | 4. Buy everything at the same time. This may not |
| your given budget. Before you ever begin to shop for | | | | save you any money, but at least you will get the |
| teaching supplies you should have a very solid | | | | expense out of the way. Many teachers prefer to |
| understanding of what you need. Scrutinize your list for | | | | purchase everything they need at the beginning of the |
| items that are necessary and if there is a little money | | | | year, so they do not have to worry about it as the |
| left over after purchasing those items, treat yourself to | | | | months go by. This requires a great deal of planning, |
| an item or two you would really like to have. If you | | | | however, and newer teachers may find this |
| have been a teacher for many years you probably | | | | challenging. Shop in a manner that is most beneficial for |
| know exactly what you need as the school year gets | | | | you. |
| started. | | | | 5. Do you have a budget? Just like anything else, you |
| 2. Buy online. This is one of the best tips that you can | | | | need to know how much money you are able to |
| follow when attempting to save on teaching supplies. | | | | spend. Once you know your budget it becomes much |
| By shopping online you will put yourself in position to | | | | easier to decide what to buy and what to pass up. |
| save a lot of money. At the very least, compare online | | | | There are many good ways to save money when |
| prices to those that you find at a local store. Chances | | | | shopping for teaching supplies. If you want to keep |
| are that you will find that online stores are offering the | | | | more money in your pocket, while still getting |
| better deals. And even if the price is comparable, the | | | | everything you need for you and your students, follow |
| selection is sure to be better than what you can find | | | | the five tips above. Chances are that one of these will |
| locally. | | | | help keep more money in your pocket. |
| 3. Are you responsible for paying for all your teaching | | | | |