Who is responsible for school supplies?

I plan to contribute what I can. I have already purchase hand sanitizer for my children’s classrooms and will probably donate Kleenex also. I rationalize that I want those things in the classroom in case my child needs them over the course of the year. We shouldn’t rely on teachers to spend their money on items like this.

The ‘basics’ I expect the school to supply include bathroom items like toilet tissue, soap, and paper towels. Outside of that, I believe parents/community should do ‘what they can’ to help with other supplies such as supplies for the nurse.

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oh well, that comment was lost and I’m not retyping. (unless it is taking a long time to show up)

In a few words..NO, I will not be purchasing anything this year.

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We our both teachers and have a child, and were amazed at the two page supply list. We can’t afford all of what they are wanting so we will buy a little at a time as our new budget allows us because of furlough and increase premiums in dental, health, and teacher retirement this summer.

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I won’t be buying. Usually by now I’ve spent all kinds of money on my kindergarten class. Not this year. We will be creative and make do with what we have.

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This one won’t be showing up with bags of stuff this year. Most of the kids can get their own and the ones who don’t are usually carrying more cash than I am to hell with it.

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You know, I think that my kid’s elementary school has come up with a best case scenario for this issue, and it would be great to see it implemented at other schools that have an active PTA. Our PTA buys supplies for all students wholesale/bulk. These supplies include those for each individual child (pens, pencils, notebooks) and for the class (hand sanitizer, tissues, dry erase markers, etc.). All I have to do is write a check to the PTA for $35, and I am done. I used to spend close to $100 on school supplies per kid. This has been a huge saving to me.

Not all parents end up paying for their kids’ supplies, but it still all works out fine since the vast majority are happy to cut a check and greatly shorten their annual trip to Target. It also protects the teachers from having to spend their own money on these supplies.

I know that some parents on this board will think that this practice takes the individuality out of the school experience. I initially felt that way, but found that when it comes down to it, my kids are perfectly happy to express their individuality with their lunchbox/backpack/clothing choices.

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Our community had a school supply giveaway last Saturday and my small church was asked to donate. Well, we do have an ongoing project of collecting school supplies but we wait until later in the school year (usually after January) and randomly select a school to send the supplies to. The big difference is what we collect because we contact the school to find out what is needed for a classroom- hand sanitizer, bulk pencils, reams of paper, dry erase markers, or other items the teachers need. I did find it entertaining to note how many families needed those big SUVs to haul a plastic bag of supplies home.

I’ll be limiting the number of drawing my CAD students print out and we’ll be using the marker board to work out ideas and solutions instead of the sketch paper. There won’t be any college signing posters printed out either. Ink cartridges are just too expensive.

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“Parents send your little monsters to school with at least paper, pen, pencil and a good attitude. Thanks to the furloughs I’m not spending ANY of my money. WHATSOEVER”.

The remarks of teachers on this blog do not necessarily reflecct the sentiments of all teahcers.

I’m off to the store to buy school supplies for my boys and for my classroom as well. I really don’t mind spending $2.50 a month to keep my classroom supplied with hand sanitizer, nor do I mind sending in a box of tissues for my children.

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I’m a science teacher and usually spend $1000 to $1200 on supplies each year. I’ll only be able to afford $300 this year, at most. Last year I passed out over 700 pencils to those who “couldn’t find” and “somebody stole”. I had 7 parents send in a box of tissue. That was gone by early September. It always amazes me that most of the supplies are used by the children whose parents send them with NOTHING – they expect the school (as in me)to have the needed supplies. These are not the kids from poor families, it’s the kids who always have money for ice cream that never have supplies. I guess Momma would rather put gas in her Escalade than make sure her kids are supplied for school. By the way, Escalade Momma tried to apply for free/reduced luch for her kids!

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PARENTS as bad, sorry, lazy, stupid as most of them are, ARE RESPONSIBLE for their OWN KIDS supplies. I will not be sending anything for the other brats to mooch. If your kid is without paper, markers, pens etc tough nuggies, he/she should fail his classes.

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Bitter much – Why do you think it’s a “bad attitude” to be honest and say we can’t afford to buy for our classrooms this year. I’ve taken a 4.5% pay cut, 3 furlough days (so far), and health insurance has gone up. When my bills are paid there will be very little left over. It’s a shame you think that teaching requires a person to bleed ’til nothing’s left. Trust me, there’s nothing left to bleed. I never ask for anything extra from the parents, but I do expect them to send their child with paper and pencil!

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Teachers I commend your stance!! Let the stupid parents of these impolite stupid little street urchins supply said urchins with paper, pens etc.

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high school teacher

whoopdey friggin do. I’m glad you can afford to buy stuff. I can’t. My 2 children in college and 1 senior in school come first. Oh and btw your views don’t reflect all the teachers on here either.

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testing

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(3rd and FINAL time..apologies in advance..the testing post showed right up but this one seems to get lost just like my earlier comment that never made it)

My original comment was lost. In essence, I responded saying that there are many teacher friends that will not be purchasing supplies this year. Many are expecting, some have spouses that were laid off months ago and are still seeking employment, others are tightening the belt as they have their own school aged children to buy supplies for.

I happen to be a single mom (I’m not looking for sympathy or whatever) and I have to provide for my daughter. I do that every day by myself. Her needs comes before my own and I refuse to send her off unprepared just so another person (teacher or parent) provides for her. She will ALWAYS have what she needs for school before I go and spend what little money is left over to supply for others.

In the past, I have had parents come to me and tell me that they couldn’t get everything on the list. That is perfectly fine to me and I appreciate it. I let them know which items are truly not necessary TO ME (copy paper, dry erase markers, etc). I appreciate all parents that do what they can. They are suffering too. However, I have grown weary over the past 13 yrs of those that send their children to school with the mentality that someone else will have enough to share with them. Times are hard and if teachers are really suffering, I honestly believe that many are in for a wake up call. So many resources that have been purchased with our own money will not be there and people will take note.

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True blogaholics aren’t worried. We use our personal blackberries instead of school-supplied computers & ISPs.

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Bitter much- I’m absolutely freaking glad your child won’t set foot in my public school. It’s easy to sit back and criticize teachers for venting on this blog. It’s obvious you don’t have to worry about money like the rest of us. Why don’t you start a private school blog and leave the rest of us alone. Don’t criticize me when you obviously have no idea what it means to be a teacher. My teaching contract says I will teach. It doesn’t say a word about spending my own money, but I have done it for years. I can’t do it anymore!

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I was mainly referring to the post referring to the students as “monsters.” Why would I want to subject my child to a teacher, such as this person, when it appears they hate their job and would most likely make life miserable for her.

I have no doubt that there are dedicated teaching professionals teaching in public schools, I have 2 in my family. However, they both recommend that I send my child to private school. I will heed their advice.

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Gwinnett Educator:

No worries. The system has been pretty hinkey lately. By the way, ITA with you. My husband’s a second-year teacher at an alternative school in Gwinnett. Last year they were not allowed to ask for supplies from the students. This year, he has no choice. I am now a SAHM and we just can’t afford to fund everyone else’s kid this year. We have already bought all our son’s supplies for school and are already tallying up the cost for next year as he goes to middle school. The financial picture seems to seem bleaker instead of brighter.

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I have been teaching for 10 years and spend about 1000 a year on materials. The fact is the schools don’t have the money and neither do the teachers. It is the parents responsibility to send their kids with pencil and paper. I agree with the comment that the kids who don’t have supplies are the ones who buy the extras at lunch. I love my job and love teaching, but I can’t be a parent and provide the kids with everything they need.

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If the AJC can recognize a comment as a duplicate then why the $%^# can’t it print the original one? Just another example of why huge numbers of people refuse to buy their print edition, and refuse to click on any ads in the online edition and sure as $%^# won’t pay for any online content if they try that.

The AJC should take over public education, because they seem to be the one outfit incompetent enough to maintain the status quo.

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I see what Blogaholic means. I have written some juicey statements — quite enlightening and entertaining, but they keep getting eaten up by the Blog Monster. Agreed. Watch this one post! Ha!

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The teacher is fully responsible for the students supplies, and this is a direct result of the teacher’s choices.

The teachers have chosen as their voice, an organization in GAE that brags about the fact that teachers spend several hundred dollars a year in school supplies. To my knowledge that have never discouraged this practice, nor spoken to how it might work against a student in the long run as far as becoming a self sufficient adult.

Essentially, it’s become the accepted practice, because teachers have made it the accepted practice. So teachers need to do the same thing that GAE, PAGE, Sonny Perdue and Kathy Cox expect them to do when it comes to working during furlough.

Whine, then comply.

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I”ve just spent $55.00 at Walmart stocking up on markers, rulers, color pencils, and such. I’m sure I’ll be at Costco or Office Depot this afternoon to get the other items I’ll need, such as tape, paper clips, dry erase markers, etc. It’s my understanding that in my county, we won’t have any supply monies available to teachers. I may be incorrect, but I’ve asked and the response has been, not at this time.

I don’t mind buying my own basic supplies for my use (and some supplies for creative applications for students), but I am not going to supply students with basic supplies, especially in middle school. Our supply list is pretty basic: pens, pencils, paper, binder, hand sanitizer, and Kleenex. I also ask that my students have a hi-liter and small sticky notes available to use. Only the hand sanitizer and Kleenex are turned in to the teacher. On any given day, at least three or more students in each class do not have pen and paper for class. I simply can not afford to supply these students every day.

Last year, only a few students turned in Kleenex. When it ran out, I got paper towels from the restroom. The kids complained, but it’s not my responsibility to provide them with tissue. I had about two or three students who used up 80% of the tissue the first two months of school (and they were not the students who brought it in). Do you think they bothered to bring in a replacement box?

Money is tight for everyone.

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Grown teacher, I don’t spend a lot on supplies for my classroom – just the typical pens and expo markers. I do buy the cheap pencils to keep on hand for kids who happen to forget to bring them to class, but I definitely have no problem buying supplies for my children. Of course my own children come first as well. I understand that you might not have lots of extra funding with two in college an one in the 12th grade. I do wish that you would refrain from calling children “little monsters.” Are you still in the classroom? If so, may I ask if it’s a metro or non-metro county? I want to make sure that you don’t have to endure my own “little monsters.”

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Part of the last post is missing. The second question, in addition to has DeKalb GAE addressed the administrative bloat, is have DeKalb GAE teachers addressed DeKalb GAE about not addressing the issue publicly and loudly, and making Crawford Lewis do the same?

If not, you know the drill. Get on those buses, another issue I don’t think DeKalb GAE has addressed, lose that valuable planning time your teacher retirement is paying for, and listen to Lewis bloviate

Then whine, then comply.

That’s the bed you’ve made, with the voice you’ve chosen to speak for you.

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Bitter Much,

As a personal contributor to the GDP of this country(i.e. I have a real job for which I get a salary and pay taxes separate and apart from my husband’s contribution to the GDP). I am so glad you are so affluent that you can afford to stay home and be able to send your daughter to private school. Maybe if you have to make “sacrifices” then YOU need to look in the mirror, and give yourself a reality check. YOU cannot afford to send your daughter to private school. This is the kind of display of stupid arrogance and unsubstantiated oppulence, that the rest of society encounter daily from women such as you, (I am a better human being because I can afford to send my daughter to private school so she does not have to mix with teachers who are humans and vent) why the country is so broke. Needless to say you are probably like one of those wives married to men like the men at AIG and all those other corporations, who take taxpayers money and get big bonuses to facilitate wives such as you sending your daughter to prviate school.

I have a child who is now a junior in high school. He goes to the new Gwinnett charter school(yest it is public school). Parents also have to purchase supplies for the classrooms, pay for online courses (mandatory for graduation) at $300 each, pay for labs, orchestra and music, organize car pools to take students to concerts, exhibitions and competitions representing the school even on weekends, take them to mandatory Saturday classes and DRIVE THEM TO SCHOOL EVERYDAY AND DO PICK UP EVERY DAY, I still contribute to the PTA as well as buy supplies for the teachers. Yet, I still do not think that if a teacher is frustrated and vents that “they should get another job.”

Frankly, I would prefer to have teachers vent about their expience in the classrooms because it shows that they geninunely care, than have them non-chalant about the issues concerning the school system, the teachers who are too non-chalant are the ones I think should get another job.

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As an experienced teacher, 32 years, with grown children, I get much of what I need. We do get a tax deduction. I buy pencils, paper, pens, hand sanitizer, colored pencils, and glue sticks. Several years ago I found I could teach with less and students actually do well. All the crafty projects can be done away with or simplified. I do teach high school. I expect them to have notebooks, etc for themselves. And, I get TP in the work area to blow noses with. As has been stated here, people have money for what they want and as long as we have provided it they will contiue to expect it. When I fist began everyone did what they were supposed to. By the way, last year I only bought paper and pencils at Wall-mart.

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Teacher, Too – Find an old coffee can – clean it out – make a slit in the lid. Decorate it for your classroom. Now take a roll of toilet paper; remove the middle cardboard section and pull a few “sheets.” Tuck them up through the slit in the lid. Voila. Tissue for your classroom. Everyone in my school uses it – the kids call it “Puffs on a Roll” and apparently they have used it like this since kindergarten. I do not have room to store 30 boxes of tissue for the entire year, so I’m satisfied, especially since my personal tissue box is safely stored in a drawer.

I do spend my own $$ for hand sanitizer for them, but that may have to go by the wayside this year. Last year the kids would almost bathe in the stuff after lunch, but no one ever replenished the supply but me. With the cuts we have had to accept, something has to go.

And Bitter Much? You are barking up the wrong tree on this blog. These folks are very dedicated. Frustrated, maybe, but that’s different. Check out your facts before spewing negativity. And may I suggest keeping your kids in private school . . .

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I’m a new parent and I did not go to school here in GA. While I was growing up my parents were responsible for the basics – paper, pencils, and etc. The school were responsible for tissue paper…whatever my parents purchased for me – well was for me. I didn’t have to share it with the entire class. Yes, at times teachers asked for certain items from each student for special projects… In GA, I’m being told by the teacher to purchase these items and then she will put them up in a cabinet for the class to use for the rest of the school year. I am more than happy to purchase items that my child needs for school, but I don’t understand why I need to purchase supplies for the entire class. I don’t have lots of extra money, but I will provide for my one child. This may sound silly – the school system doesn’t get enough money from the government to purchase items for schools? Unfortunately, I can’t help the entire class, but I sure can afford my one child.

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Oh no, Grown Teacher, I live in the non-metro area. Maybe if we both keep our fingers crossed, you and my boys won’t cross paths.

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Sitting here shaking my head at the very unprofessional comments of a number of the posters claiming to be educators. No wonder our profession gets little to no respect. I realize these posters do not represent the whole of the education profession, but they certainly are a visible portion thereof. Sad.

As for buying supplies….throughout the year I watch for deals on supplies (seasonal stuff, etc) and clip coupons. I often get useful supplies for pennies on the dollar. If you watch for the penny/nickel/dime/quarter sales at the office supply stores, you can get lots of basic supplies for very little $. And if you take in your school/district ID, they will usually waive the item limit within reason (as in you could by 25 to 30 for a classroom set). You just have to be willing to get up and out there on Sunday when the store opens. Be smart with what little money you may choose to spend.

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Absolutely- Parents responsibility!

Warning Parents- Don’t send all of your child’s supplies for the teacher to keep. Your supplies will end up being class supplies and distributed to other kids as needed (speak from experience). Make sure you only send what your kid needs in his/her bookbag and replace as needed.

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Wow…I can buy curriculum and supplies for 2 children for $500.00 per year, and my children test way above the nat. average on standardized tests. Why is it so expensive to educate PS children? When I went to school in the 80’s-90’s my parents only had to pay for school clothes!

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Why is it so expensive to educate public school children wondering? It’s not. What’s expensive is supporting the administrative bureaucracy that goes along with the public schools.

But since teachers themselves support that bureaucracy, by supporting organizations that support that bureaucracy, because that bureaucracy fills their coffers in terms of members of that bureaucracy paying dues, it’s going to continue.

And teachers, apparently unaware that they are actively contributing to their own misery, are going to do exactly what is expected of them. Whine, then comply.

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I won’t buy a single thing. The kids will be on their own, I am afraid. In the past I have spent 300-700 per year on things for the classroom. I quit buying anything but the Sonnymoney items 2 years ago. This year, there will be nothing. I lose 410 outright per furlough day, plus implications to my retirement. My budget can be as tight as anyone else’s. No appologies.

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I don’t have any children, I am a teacher. Funny that you opted to respond to me the way you did. BTW; I teach high school, not elementary but I do know how it works.

On another note: I wonder how long it will take for this post to show up. My posts on the other AJC blogs show up immediately, what’s up with this blog?

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Children’s parents are (supposed to be) adults. While some don’t act like it, does that mean we take over their jobs even more? Is it someone else’s responsibility to provide housing, a car, etc, because a child has crummy parents? I know too many people all to willing to let someone else do the hard stuff.

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My family is not well off by any means. I’m a stay at home mom, and my husband runs his own business. We have just enough. That being said..I can get a starbucks coffee every morning, I can grab the occasional magazine. To me education comes first, if those things have to go so I can supply school supplies for a teacher who needs it, I will do so. This is our future generation, they need all they can get. If it means I have to go without the extras, to help those in need, then I will. Sometimes its important to ask..why do I have extra? what am I suppose to do with it?

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I forgo the tissue – why waste it? I just tell the kids to wipe the nose/face on their hands/sleeve. Works for me.

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Jeffy boy, you were not paying attention. I was not complaining about my own 4 children (nor the 21 who I supplement during the year). My point still is that there are ways that teachers and parents can get what is necesssary at the most optimal time. As a matter of fact, not only do I provide for my own children but when their teachers need extras that make learning fun I ALWAYS volunteer to send it. One of my children’s teachers asked me to hold off on sending materials because some other parents NEVER send anything, yet will be the first to enjoy what others have provided for their child. After staying home with my children for a number of years, I began to teach full time. Times are tight for everyone, however I am not struggling. I do though choose not to spend all of my discretionary money on everyone elses children. My first year teaching, which was not too long ago, I spent close to $2K on my students and class. I teach in a Title I school and often students have needs that are not an issue in other areas.
I do take issue with students who cannot bring a pencil yet wear $100 shoes.

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Honestly, I am shocked by the tone some teachers are using on here. I guess when nobody knows your name its easy to be unprofessional.

Yes, I will buy supplies. No, it will not be as much as in the past. Some families honestly CAN NOT afford the required $50-60 in supplies that the schools are asking. Supplies or food on the table? I think they are going to feed their families- wouldn’t you? No to say there are those that don’t abuse the fact that their child WILL get supplies at school.

But it comes down to putting the kids first. Its not their fault if their parents can’t afford it or choose not to contribute. I am not going to crush a 6 year old heart if she can’t have a new pack of crayons at the beginning of the year (which cost 14 cents when ordered through the county!)

I plan in the spring each year and order supplies through the county which saves about 40% of the cost. I do what I can…But I would never refuse a child supplies because I have beef with their parents and their choices. No child will be denied full access to an education due to lack of school supplies.

And a big thank you too all parents who donate extras…we really do appreciate it!

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As a teacher, I normally spend 400.00 a year beginning in August on school supplies. I continue to spend my own money on games, food and snacks, craft items and ending on certificates to give the children at the end of school. This yar, I am NOT going to spend any money. With a pay cut and my husbands hours cut at his own job, it doesn’t make sense for me to give to children when the child’s own parents do not give. Last year, I purchased a bookbag, shoes and socks to give to a child who came into my class with no bookbag and tattered shoes. He later told me about the XBox his mom bought for him. My own children do not even have an X Box. It’s going to be harder this year because as a teacher, I can’t stand to see a child in need of anything from a box of crayons to a snack….but I have to pay my own bills.

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As a parent I’m tired of sending in composition books, notebooks etc and they are NEVER used. Teachers need to only ask for what they truly need. This year things are tight. I have stacks of stuff my older child came home with each year, almost never used. I will buy what I think they need. the supply list is out of control. On top of that you want everything to be community! Get over it, ask for what the kids need.

FYI the list for private school was much smaller!

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Why are the Georgia school systems like this? When I attended school our supplies were handed out by the school. Everything we needed was given to us. If we wanted extra things – we bought it ourselves. I agree with some of the other people. Someone needs to organize a school wide buying program, so the materials and supplies can be bought in bulk and then rationed out by someone responsible. Tons of money and time could saved by going this route.

I volunteered at my sons school last year and the waste of paper at just this one school is absolutely amazing. The copies that they make is absolutely amazing. Everyday he came home there were ridiculous, useless notes from the school announcing this or that. There needs to be a program inplemented that sends out emails to the most of us that have computers. Tons of paper and time can be saved with this method. For those that don’t have a computer, the teacher can give them the paper handouts.

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If the school systems want supplies and materials communal then they need to purchase the items themselves with our tax money. Organize your damn school system and make sure there is enough money for friggen school supplies.

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The only school supplies I will be purchasing this year will be for my own child. Year after year, I am faced with students who come to school unprepared – even with the items provided to them – like their textbook! It is not my responsibility to make sure anyone’s child has pencils, paper, etc. – especially when he/she has an iPhone, new sneakers every month, and feeds the vending machines with about $5 a day.

trell – I am a really good teacher. The fact that I’m refusing to buy school supplies for my 125 students has absolutely no bearing on that fact. Will I have an extra pencil or the occasional sheet of paper – yes. But, there will only be one box of tissues in my room, and that box will be in my desk drawer for my use only. The same goes for my bottle of hand sanitizer. I give my child the individual tissue packets, as well as the small hand sanitizer to keep in his backpack. Why can’t you do the same?

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Oh sure, the schools should buy the basic school supplies for ALL public school students. Public schools are loaded with cash. Maybe they can furlough us for another 3 days to pay for your kids paper? If I sound unprofessional, you may want to check yourself. I do my job and do it better than most, I expect to be paid. I already work 12 hour days (beyond my contracted time!) and more days (WELL beyond my contracted time!).

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I have been teaching high school in Gwinnett for over 20 years. I have never sent a supply list, nor have any of my other high school colleagues.
I do expect my students to come to school with the basic supplies, notebook paper, pens, pencils and a notebook of some type. One pack of notebook paper will not last an entire school year. (Parents plan on at least one pack per month of school.) One of the unwritten things that we are trying to teach our students is responsiblity. By providing their own supplies, the students are held accountable and responsible for their own learning. This is a goal everyone should help our students learn: responsiblity for themselves.

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We all need to remember these are hard times for everyone. Most of all we need to think about the kids and how they feel. Some children don’t have responsible enough parents to make sure they are even dressed and feed in the morning before they are sent to school. Please remember that every child situation is different and we should take any of this out on them, they are only children. I am in my 30’s and I can only remember the teachers who were kind to me and who loved their jobs and children. If you don’t have a love for children you don’t need to be in this profession, because we all know teachers are not in it for the pay. When it comes to school supplies, if you can afford to buy more, buy more it will be given back to you 10 fold, somewere down the line.

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A few of the items on this year’s supply list includes 12 glue sticks, 4 dry erasers, a box of Expo markers, hand sanitizer, baby wipes, Kleenex, reams of copy paper, and Ziploc bags. Where is the money from the school district? I wonder what the teacher plans to do with 80 dry erasers(20 kidsX4). Will the teacher use 20 sets of Expo markers
this year? These request have gotten too excessive. I purchased most of the “teacher” items and more pencils than required. At .29 a pack of 10..why not? The school itself should supply the dry erasers, Expo markers, and copy paper. Neither the teacher nor parent should be expected to supply these things. The school can pay for professional binding of handbooks and send home tons of misc. stuff in my child’s folder(pdf????). The school district spends millions of dollars without bids, but gee the teacher does not have markers and erasers for the board. Did someone fail Consumer Economics class???

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Bitter Much,

No, you lack the capacity to touch a nerve with me, YOU on the other hand hit a nerve with many of the other posters, substantiated by the postings directed to you and the image of financial superiority you project.

In your posting you were wrong in the disingenuous and dismissive way you addressed the issue. In my travels around the world, it is a fact that no institution is perfect, and the carte blanche way you negatively painted the entire public school system and all teachers because of these postings shows a tremendous lack of exposure.

My family has been very fortunate to live all around the world and live in affluent neighborhoods while our son attended public schools located in these very affluent neighborhoods. I am constantly in the presence of really rich people, (the ones who can afford to send their children to private school without “making sacrifices or sticking to a strict budget”) and these really rich people are not disingenuous or impolite, are cognizant to the financial struggles of others and do make sustantial contributions to our public schools and others not as affluent. Only the noveau riche project the image you protrayed in your posting.

Our children project us! Needless to say your child will probably go into the private school classrooms and project this air of unsubstantiated afflulence and superior attitude, because she has learnt it from you! It is interesting that when one is reponded to in like manner of the image one projects, one immediately cries that one has been denigrated! Do not open doors that you cannot
deal with what comes in through these doors.

Everyone has a first amendment right to speak, including teachers. They have a right to express their frustrations and concerns about their individual financial situations. YOU have no proof that all the posters are indeed real teachers of our public school. It is convceiveable that some of the negative postings might be made by teachers in the private school system or just someone in the general public.

Be really careful about flaunting these jobs that you and your wife both have now to be able to afford private school, consider that since you may not be the owner of a business, you are subject to the same furloughs and pay cuts that these teachers are angry about, What would you do if you both lost these jobs, and have gone through your savings, will the private school be willing to allow your daughter to continue to attend without the tutition being paid?

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Last year our system decided that since we were getting SonnyMoney, they would cut our classroom allotment by $100. This year the allotment from our system is still cut, and we didn’t get SonnyMoney either.

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As an elementary educator for 16 years, I have spent my own money on classroom supplies every year. Most people don’t realize that teachers (at least in Gwinnett) only get about $100 PER YEAR from the school to spend on supplies. These supplies include construction paper, glue, scissors, etc. I’ve found that I can forgo the basics and spend about $250 at the beginning of the year on bargain items like glue sticks, markers, crayons, folders, and notebooks for my kids. Anything that is “communal” I buy for the class. I do agree that it’s ridiculous for some teachers to ask for paper towels and other non-essential items, but I also know that we don’t get a lot of money to buy what we do need, and that teachers, in general, are not frivolous with the things they request.

Parents, let’s think about this for a minute. The supplies you send in August are meant to last 180 days. Your children are not only using pencils and paper these days, but most elementary teachers also use personal dry erase boards for the kids, which necessitates dry erase markers. Kids never seem to be able to secure the caps on these, so they dry out frequently. Even through the county supply catalog, these are expensive to replace. The same goes for overhead markers. Copy paper in my classroom is not used for making copies, but for illustrations and child-created books. Think about what you would want your child to be able to accomplish in a year and how willing you might be to contribute to their success.

I’m not saying that parents should be expected to supply things for the entire class…Just that it’s easy to overlook the fact that these supplies are to be used for the entire year. How can we expect a teacher to buy an entire year’s worth of supplies for 25 students with $100? I am lucky enough to be able to afford to spend a couple hundred dollars a year on my students, and take that opportunity to teach them how to respect materials. At the beginning of the year, I show them which things the school paid for and which things I paid for, and let them know that I don’t mind paying for things, but that they must respect the things they’re given. If they misuse something, it’s taken away.

I think the issues for most teachers is the fact that roughly half the children don’t send in any supplies, yet come to school dressed in nicer clothes than I’ll ever own, with their freshly manicured nails and hair extensions. They somehow qualify for free lunch (how closely does the government look at those applications?), yet can afford to buy ice cream every day. They tell me they can’t afford to pay $7 to go on the field trip, yet brag about their new PS3 or XBox. These are usually the same children who are dropped off at school (in their brand new Escalades) an hour before they’re supposed to be there so their parents can avoid paying for daycare. I am sure that the readers of this blog, obviously interested in and concerned about the state of education, are not among those parents. It’s hard to imagine there are people out there who purposely teach their children, through their daily actions, that it’s okay to lie, cheat, and depend on someone else to support you. Unfortunately, teachers see this on a daily basis, so please forgive us and understand if our views of the world have become a little jaded.

And for those of you who still support us, thank you for making our lives a little easier.

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I am a Dekalb teacher and teach in an at-risk school. Every year I buy glue,pencils, folders, and crayons for my students when they are on sale at a reasonable price. Fortunately, I can afford it and don’t mind helping my students. Some parents contribute supplies and some students never bring in any supplies. During the year, I ask for more supplies and get little response. It makes my life less stressful to just purchase items in August. Many of the teachers at my school do the same thing. Our PTA can not afford to help us defer the cost.

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What teacher is in it for the money?

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As an elementary educator for 16 years, I have spent my own money on classroom supplies every year. Most people don’t realize that teachers (at least in Gwinnett) only get about $100 PER YEAR from the school to spend on supplies. These supplies include construction paper, glue, scissors, etc. I’ve found that I can forgo the basics and spend about $250 at the beginning of the year on bargain items like glue sticks, markers, crayons, folders, and notebooks for my kids. Anything that is “communal” I buy for the class. I do agree that it’s ridiculous for some teachers to ask for paper towels and other non-essential items, but I also know that we don’t get a lot of money to buy what we do need, and that teachers, in general, are not frivolous with the things they request.
Parents, let’s think about this for a minute. The supplies you send in August are meant to last 180 days. Your children are not only using pencils and paper these days, but most elementary teachers also use personal dry erase boards for the kids, which necessitates dry erase markers. Kids never seem to be able to secure the caps on these, so they dry out frequently. Even through the county supply catalog, these are expensive to replace. The same goes for overhead markers. Copy paper in my classroom is not used for making copies, but for illustrations and child-created books. Think about what you would want your child to be able to accomplish in a year and how willing you might be to contribute to their success. I’m not saying that parents should be expected to supply things for the entire class…Just that it’s easy to overlook the fact that these supplies are to be used for the entire year. How can we expect a teacher to buy an entire year’s worth of supplies for 25 students with $100? I am lucky enough to be able to afford to spend a couple hundred dollars a year on my students, and take that opportunity to teach them how to respect materials. At the beginning of the year, I show them which things the school paid for and which things I paid for, and let them know that I don’t mind paying for things, but that they must respect the things they’re given. If they misuse something, it’s taken away.
I think the issue for most teachers is the fact that roughly half the children don’t send in any supplies, yet come to school dressed in nicer clothes than I’ll ever own, with their freshly manicured nails and hair extensions. They somehow qualify for free lunch (how closely does the government look at those applications?), yet can afford to buy ice cream every day. They tell me they can’t afford to pay $7 to go on the field trip, yet brag about their new PS3 or XBox. These are usually the same children who are dropped off at school (in their brand new Escalades) an hour before they’re supposed to be there so their parents can avoid paying for daycare. I am sure that the readers of this blog, obviously interested in and concerned about the state of education, are not among those parents. It’s hard to imagine there are people out there who purposely teach their children, through their daily actions, that it’s okay to lie, cheat, and depend on someone else to support you. Unfortunately, teachers see this on a daily basis, so please forgive us and understand if our views of the world have become a little jaded.
And for those of you who still support us, thank you for making our lives a little easier.

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Take care of your own, and share as you can. That’s the best any of us can do.

However, I can tell you right now that my willingness to share is decreased when you have shoes that cost six times what mine cost, your cell phone is the latest iPhone with a data plan (I can’t afford a data plan), and you drive up in a new leased Lexus SUV. I’m not jealous — but I don’t think that I need to share with you, either. You’re spending a lot of money to impress me — ok, I’m so impressed that I don’t think you need my help. And I’m not asking you to share with me. I take care of my own.

Communal supplies? No way. I buy the pen, my kid better be able to USE the pen. This is not “The Rainbow Fish”.

The people here who are ragging on teachers because they are not saintly enough to suit them are the same people who walk by homeless people on the street complaining about the smell. When did becoming a teacher become synonymous with taking vows of poverty, chastity and obedience? Yes, the best teachers are passionate about sharing knowledge — but what business is made up completely of “bests”? All teachers are human — they get frustrated, they feel under-appreciated, and they, too, are dealing with economic realities. How many of us would stay with a company that made you buy your own copy paper?!?! Get real. It’s a wonder teachers aren’t raving psychotics, they have to deal with so many alternate realities under conditions that most would consider draconian at best.

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Teachers can help parents save a lot of money by revising the school supply list that are posted in the major shopping centers. I know from experience that these lists of supplies are just another rush job to keep the principals off the classroom teacher’s backs. There are some items listed on these list that the students will never use. The classrooms will be full of glue and batteries and these supplies will be stored in a box and never seen again. If someone would be willing to take a positive stand and inform the principals that more is not always best. It is so hard to try to change the mindsets of those that feel like everyone is trying to get over on them. Teachers, let the administrators know how much is being wasted so you can get what is needed and stop requesting unnecessary BS.

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I will be buying all of the supplies. I don’t think it is the teachers’ responsibility. We have known all summer school starts in Aug. (Just like Christmas is Dec. 25th) With all of the Back to School Supply Giveaways in the ATL everyone should have supplies. One year I went to four.

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educated=educate in my response above… and I am sure a few more mistakes. I am sure someone will correct me and insult me since I am an educator… but hey, this is a blog, not a term paper

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I wrote a longer comment yesterday that has yet to show up…I’m sure it will eventually, but in the meantime…

Basically, I agree that parents should not be asked to provide copy paper – that is absolutely the school’s responsibility, although being more thrifty and going paperless as much as possible isn’t a bad idea.

Next, the red pens and the dry erase markers are mostly likely for the students’ use, not the teachers’ Many teachers have the students grade some of their own papers and use small white boards (like the slate tablets of old) for assessment. Still, when an old rag or paper towel can be used, there is no need to ask for 4 erasers!

Also, as far as “community property” the only things that should be for everyone are tissues and hand sanitizer. I think we’ve created a vicious cycle – parents don’t send their kids to school with supplies because they don’t want them to be put in the community pot, which requires the students to borrow supplies from the community pot! Why don’t we just eliminate the whole community pot idea, expect ALL students to show up with at least something to write with and something to write on – the poorest of the poor will certainly be helped by PTA/PTO, churches and stores (don’t believe me ? Look at all the places taking donations). For the record, I have never had a community pot, nor were my kids ever expected to contribute to it, thankfully. I do pick up pencils, pens and what not – I also take stuff that my stuents clean out of their lockers and don’t want – I use those through out the year.

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Enter your comments here

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I am taking advantage of the office supply stores rewards program and teacher appreciation specials. I do buy supplies that make my job easier. I am allowed a $200 tax deduction and use that as my rationale for spending my own money. Money is tight, but I chose, or was called to be a teacher and will not make my students carry the burden, nor will I. $200 budget, itemized deductions = school supplies.

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A couple of additional comments:
**The state and federal governments guide how money can be spent. Schools don’t get a lot of say so. Unfortunately, state money cannot often be spent on dry-erase markers…wish it could.

**Teachers don’t make as much as some of you think. Private school teachers make even less than us, so before you move your kiddo to private, be ready to shell out for supplies there too.

**You’d be shocked at how many parents won’t buy basic supplies.

**You’d be shocked at stuff we teachers buy for kids. I’ve paid for lunches, bookbags, pants, and even shoes. I’m not a sucker–I just can’t stand to see a kid be made fun of for toting his books in a plastic bag. I also get distressed when the shoes have to be hot glued to be held together.

**Schools don’t provide many consumables. Our school allots us $50 in consumables once a year. I use mine for copy paper and Expo markers. I buy other paper and more Expos from my pocket.

**The upaid furlough day our district required us to take yesterday: 30% of the teachers in my middle school were there anyway. I know because I was there too. I don’t know how many more came after I left at 3pm. We are one of the few industries whose employees will show up even when there is no compensation.

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Reality:

Teachers can and do get fired for performance. Unfortunately, it is quite often the best teachers that rankle the feathers of establishment that fall prey. Change, at least in education, must start at the top. And as far as your analogy goes, the more accurate phrase would be your boss requiring YOU to purchase your own blood pressure cuff for patients.

And if EVERY teacher were doing such a poor job, no one from the state of GA would ever go on to a decent college outside the state, never mind in it.

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Reality-
I wish the adminstrators at my school were more concerned with national ranking than with other things that do not add up to a hill of beans. If they were, then they wouldn’t counteract the teachers’ efforts to improve learning in their classroom. They would not entertain issues that have NOTHING to do with student learning (who should move to the trailer, who gets to be next door to another teacher because they want to share connecting classrooms, who is doing what AFTER school). Instead of encouraging professional growth and advanced degrees, the attitude of a cold shoulder is given as if you are trying to take THEIR job.
-healthcare- I noticed after I had surgery (2 in nine months) that some of the charges were a little outrageous. Of course, I realized that I am charged more because I am able to pay and therefore cover for those that can not. We do the same with our field trips. The price is jacked up so that those that can pay can help cover the costs of those that can not. I disagree with that concepte because now, we have more parents not paying than those that do. And why should they??? You are notified a month ahead of time that $7 is needed. YET those same children talk about all of their gaming toys, have ice cream money, and the latest fashions.

-dry erase markers- I have used those a lot in the past and a lot of teachers use those daily in the classroom. The children will use them by writing on their desks (and cleaning with a wipe). Simple, hands on, uses no paper..the ability to write on their desks to answer questions. (I purchased my own last yr for the class to use).

Bottom line, a lot of cuts have been made over the yrs in education which leaves the schools searching for ways to pay for certain items. (of course I’m still not understanding the need for 3 plasma tvs in our school or others) I do not agree with parents being asked to supply the teachers with items that the schools once provided for us. It is going to take a lot more than a bunch of people complaining on a blog or to each other about the situations at hand. The question is, just how far many of us are willing to go.

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You obviously have never been to law school. Supplies…things the students have for personal use, are not paid for by tax money. As a matter of fact, the law doesn’t require schools to provide transportation! We could save a ton of money by eliminating the cost of running the busses, of course the parents would b!tch. The facilities, text books and staff are really the minimum required.

As a taxpayer it would be a cold day in hell before I would allow one dime of my money to pay for some kid to have a pencil that they would simply throw away, lose or break. When you “give” people things, they don’t really have any respect for those things. It is the responsibility of the parents to provide for the needs of their kids.

Someone also asked about the “free/reduced meal program”, the parents self-report their income…many lie (big time!). Only about 1/10 of the applicants are asked for proof of income. Most of these parents have been playing the system for a looonnnnggg time and know what the odds are of getting caught. If they do get caught; there are no penalties, they are just not approved for the free/reduced meals for their kid(s).

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reality – actually teachers don’t whine and complain “all the time” – exaggerate much? You’re on an education blog – people are responding to the topics posted (and many are being far more honest than they would be in real life). If you don’t like it, take your reading eyes elsewhere – Wooten’s Thinking Right blog is an awful lot of fun – or maybe the dating blog is more your cup of tea.

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Oh, Reality….bless your heart. You should visit my district where 100% of our Title 1 schools (That means poor families.) made AYP, where 92% of my English language learners met or exceeded on the CRCT, and where we mean business. Gosh, I wish you could visit our classrooms.

I hope your children have been homeschooled since you value our free-and-public education so little. Surely they must have been…….otherwise you’d never have written such a terrible thing about thousands of hard working individuals that you do not know.

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As a current educator, I am embarrassed by some responses. Educators, like all other laborers, are affected by the economy…our employers have just as hard a time meeting budget requirements as all companies. I believe the professionals will stand up to the plate and do whatever needs to be done to teach all students. Good parents will do whatever needs to be done. We will find out who has mettle… and who doesn’t.

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Wasn’t finished my comment….teachers are already underpaid. Everyone needs to sacrifice. I am still trying to figure out why my child’s Kindergarten teacher needs 2 reams of paper; that’s 1,000 sheets per child and he’s only in school for 180 days. I have taught Kindergarten before and that’s just too much xeroxing…he needs to learn how to write his own sentences and math problems. I have also taught in a different state, and fortunately, the schools are purchased all of the school supplies. Parents, buy what you can and teachers don’t spend any of your money!

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I received a ridiculously long list of supplies my child needed for kindergarten. I am out of a job and I simply can’t afford to buy all of the things. Also the list is very specific about the type of supplies, crayola, expo, 3M and whatnot. I went to the dollar store and got tons of stuff that just as good. What do my tax dollars go toward ?

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As a home school mom, I will be buying all of our supplies this year. I constantly find deals on used books and end of season clearance for school supplies. I just upgraded our computer lab with a MacBook Pro which I purchased with a $100 educator’s discount plus tax-free savings. I buy mechanical pencils to eliminate the need for a pencil sharpener and wasting time. We’ve planned a Mediterranean cruise for our ancient history field trip. Frequent flyer miles and 60% discount cruises helps to keep costs down. So far, no furloughs…….

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I’m a teacher in a poor, rural district in South Georgia. Like many other teachers who have posted here, I love my job and pour my heart, soul, and money into it. However, I can’t help but wonder how many doctors pay out of their personal accounts for supplies for the hospitals in which they operate? How many lawyers pay out of their personal accounts for supplies for the courtrooms in which they appear? How many police officers pay out of their personal bank accounts for the guns, the forms, the gasoline for their patrol cars, or the other supplies they need to do their job effectively?

I will continue to pour my heart, soul, and money into my job, but those of you who aren’t teachers should understand that it is difficult financially and it is frustrating professionally not to have the support we need.

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I will not be buying anything for my class this year- thanks to no raise from the govenor and now 3 days furlough! Parent, all you have to do in my class is send in tissues and hand sanitizer….and there is always a few who refuse to do that!

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As educators, I am appalled at some of these blogs. Educators and Parents think outside the box. We all are falling on hard times–BUT–we all are still blessed with health maybe not wealth. Stop complaining and being bitter–I always plan for hard times–so I tend to buy supplies when they are below cost–like go in October or November they will be selling for pennies on the dollar. Ask neighbors to donate to the classroom–there are many who have school supplies that they don’t use and glad to get rid of….Remember think outside the box–you are employed it could be worse.

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Oops – I meant to say that I don’t ask for anything that IS used by me. Anything on my suggested materials are items that will make the students’ learning experience easier.

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When are parents going to take responsibility for their children and all that goes along with having children?

If you chose to have children then you should be responsible for anything and everything they need.

Quit living above your means parents. Quit expecting handouts. Everyone makes choices and I am tired of paying for the bad choices others have made. I am sick of the public expecting the classroom teacher to raise their child.

Buy your child’s school supplies. They are cheaper right now than any other time of the year. Plus…just as another person commented…you knew all year that your child would need supplies just as you knew all year Christmas and birthdays were right around the corner.

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Dave – if you want your child to be competitive with other students mathematically, I would suggest that you invest in that $100 calculator! She will use it all the way through college, and it is used on the PSAT and SAT as well. If you don’t buy it for her, she will have to borrow one in class, and will probably not be able to bring it home with her to use for her homework. The calculator is a one-time purchase and will teach her how to keep up with her things as well. **Engrave her name on the back of the calculator as well as inside the battery case. And, keep in mind – the calculator is for your daughter, not the teacher.

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I have to agree with most teachers… School supplies should be the responsibility of the parents. If a child is really destitute, it should be obvious (holes in jeans, bad shoes, etc). I remember growing
up in DeKalb during the 60’s and 70’s in that shape. Even then, my parents supplied me with the essentials. Sometimes the wonderful teachers would buy my lunch because they sensed my need. Teachers are not compensated no where near where they need to be in our society and they are not baby sitters. Becuase they can’t afford to hand out supplies to everyone, does not mean they’re not compassionate. They’re just underpaid, over worked, and unappreciated. Give them a break and raise your own children. They shouldnt have to be the parents too.
On the other hand… stating I’m a single parent has no value with me. If you have a child and you’re unmarried, then you certainly had a hand in that decision. I’m a single dad who pays child support and then some, but who gives a rats a**. So nuff said on that!
Jerry Cannon, Kabul Afghanistan

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I have read through most of these comments and in some cases I do feel for the teachers. On the other hand I feel for the parents out there that really can not afford what is being asked. I have five children ranging from High School to Elementary and have always been able to purchase what is requested on those lists. Of course, I must be honest, I DO NOT AND WILL NOT purchase items that I feel are the Teachers responsibility i.e.(copy paper, dry erasers, red ink pens, dry erase markers….) You all use those items so you should be in charge of making those purchases. I purchase notebook paper (for the year), pencils, crayons, markers, colored pencils….As for items that are listed under name brands I do not purchase I will typically purchase the generic unless I can catch it on sale. I have a problem at times purchasing those items all to know that I am making huge purchases just because another parent did not do their shopping. Not to mention, the items are sent to school and then stored away so that little Susie or Johnnie can use them because Mommy or Daddy did not do their shopping. Parents and Teachers are responsible for their own supplies..

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Did anyone check out the mall this tax free weekend? If you did, you noticed packed parking lots and wall to wall people shopping for school clothes. If parents put this much money into clothes and shoes why not put the same into supplies? We don’t hear anyone complaining about how much they had to spend on clothing for kids. It will be interesting to see how many kids have new clothes and shoes, but no supplies, lunch money, etc.

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First of all, why all of the teacher bitterness towards Sonny and all the crying about furlough days? Do you think you are the only ones in this position? Not hardly! Be thankful you have a job, PERIOD, in these hard economic times. Some of us are not as lucky to be employed[ i.e. me] due to a layoff and have to scramble everyday just to make ends meet for my family. So you’re going to cry about 3 to 7 furlough Days? Cry to someone who is ignorant. Second of all, what happen to the days, like when I went to school? You were responsible for basic supplies and that was it. I don’t agree that teachers should foot the bill, but some of the things on the supply list are ridiculous The next thing you know, we’ll be sending toilet paper and paper towels.

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Well, I was pleasantly surprised. The list looked long, but once I was at Target yesterday, my fears were put to rest. The items were not expensive at all! I am going to get out of this for around $30 and that includes buying extra sanitizer and Kleenex for the class. Almost all of the items on my son’s list was under a $1. Target was pretty much cleaned out but I searched and found the things needed. Sure there will be more things needed during the year, but it wasn’t that bad. Now, on to the clothes. He really only needs shoes and when it get’s cooler, some long pants. Not so bad peeps.

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I thought the question on the table was “who is responsible for school supplies?”. Without a doubt, the parent is. I don’t understand people who think otherwise. I think it is a shame that teachers have to put in their own money to meet the needs of the classroom.

I went school supply shopping 3 weeks ago when the supplies first hit the shelves. I think I spent maybe $17 for everything on the list for the 1st grade. I don’t think that is unreasonable at all.

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Educator YOUR COMMENTS ARE WORTH READING AGAIN.

August 1st, 2009
11:07 pm
I am amazed that the question of who should supply students with classroom supplies, was even posed.
I am a parent as well as an educator, it is my responsibility to purchase supplies for my daughter. As a teacher, I do what works for “me” in “my” classroom, so consequently when supplies are cheap at the beginning of the school year, I purchase extras so when students are without and parents

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[...] were NOT paying for the supplies this year – especially in light of the furloughs. Here’s the link to check out that alternative view of this [...]

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As much as i understand the whole kleenex thing (Which by the way I have no problem with.) I also have 5 children that I support. What i do have a problem with for example. My first grader got her supply list for the up coming year and on it were 8 glue sticks, 2 bottles of elmers glue, 12 boxes of crayons, 12 Large Pink erasers….. When i gave birth to my child i took on the role of supporting my child not only emotionally but financially and I did not sign anything that said i would take care of other people’s children. In our community 2 months before school starts every weekend they hold a thing where you can get free school supplies and backpack. If people are to lazy to attend them why should i be held accountable? and every year they are making the list’s longer and longer. I mean post it’s and they have to be pastel??? I cannot afford to supply the whole classroom. I will be sending my children to school with LABELED supplies. If they would say could you please donate these items i would not be so angry. And as for is one box of crayons going to last her a year probobly not but, my daughter knows she can come to me if she needs another box and i would be glad to go buy her another. But with the price of uniforms (public school) shoes (2 pair) and personal school supplies I spend quite a bit not to mention the money i pay for sports each year. I feel sorry for teachers that do spend out of pocket but please understand why should we have to pick up the tab for other children as well when most of the time there parents have flat screens and cell phones. Go to a pawn shop get the money and support your child.

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