Who is responsible for school supplies?
Today begins the annual sales tax holiday. Families will hit the stores to purchase back-to-school clothing, computers and supplies.
Many schools and teachers mail letters or put on their Web sites the items they expect students to have. The lists include everything from specific types of notebooks and binders to requests for tissues, hand sanitizer, copy paper and other items.
Some families buy all the items. Some don’t. Often teachers use their own money to plug in the holes.
But I wonder what the school supply turnout will be like this year.
With the recession and many families facing tight budgets, I wonder how many parents will refuse to buy items they think the school should supply – like tissues or copy paper.
(Although the hand sanitizer would be pretty useful with all the worries about swine flu.)
At the same time I wonder how many teachers will stop using their own money to pay for these items. Between the furloughs, no raises and increased health care costs, money is tight for educators.
What supplies are you planning to buy? Is the economy forcing you to reconsider what you’re willing to contribute?
STORY HELP: A co-worker is writing a back-to-school story looking at who is volunteering in schools. If your PTA or school has an interesting group — whether it be all fathers or all grandparents or employees from a local company — we want to hear from you. Send a note to gstaples@ajc.com if you’d like to participate.
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177 comments Add your comment
Gwinnett Educator
July 30th, 2009
8:57 am
I can tell you right now, I know of MANY teachers who will not be purchasing supplies for their classroom this year. We have all agreed that some parents will truly be in shock when they see the lack of materials in their child’s classroom. Maybe some parents will see just how much we come out of the pocket.
I slacked up last year on the materials. I am a single mom and my child comes first. I will make sure her needs are provided for before another child’s. This year, I am not purchasing anything. I simply cannot. I have medical bills that need to be paid for from a surgery earlier this year. (It may sound mean, but it is reality). I have colleagues whose spouses have been laid off, many are expecting, and life has just not been a cake walk.
To answer the question, it is the parents’ responsibility to make sure that their child(ren) have the necessary materials for school. During my 13 yrs in the classroom, this one scenario NEVER fails. Children will come to school with 2 pencils, a pack of crayons, and maybe 2 notebooks..and this is supposed to last the entire school year. I have also grown weary of seeing the materials that I have purchased with my own money be destroyed without much thought.
I am backing off of my rant now. This is obviously a sore spot for me as I have noticed that this “mindset” has grown during my entire career. I have ALWAYS appreciated the parents that do send their children to school prepared, especially those that have fallen on hard times. I had several last year speak with me personally about their situation and asked if it were ok if they didn’t purchase everything on the list. I thanked them and then showed which items that were not “necessary” (copy paper, etc) I wish EVERYONE the best at the start of this upcoming school year.
Ernest
July 30th, 2009
9:05 am
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.
William Casey
July 30th, 2009
9:12 am
Any teacher using his/her own money to buy school supplies is not very smart. I’m retired now so I have no dog in this fight. However, I know for sure that I wasn’t put on earth to be a slave to other people’s children. I was put on earth to be a compensated and skilled provider of educational services. I did that for 31 years and am proud. End of story.
Gwinnett Educator
July 30th, 2009
9:16 am
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.
Gwinnett Educator
July 30th, 2009
9:16 am
Ooops..and NO it is not because I want to be mean, but my home life and the needs of my own comes first.
verdi73
July 30th, 2009
9:32 am
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.
mift
July 30th, 2009
9:32 am
I think supplies will be scarce this year. Teacher have the make the supplies “optional” but really have no choice. I am so tired of folks complaining about taxes and public school funding and then turning around and complaining again that they need to pitch in to buy tissues. This whole thing is exhausting. Parents- do what you can to make this the best year possible for your child in that class- take some responsibility!
over it
July 30th, 2009
10:07 am
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.
Grown A$$ Teacher
July 30th, 2009
10:38 am
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.
Way Down South
July 30th, 2009
10:41 am
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.
Bev
July 30th, 2009
10:41 am
Another thing. I can’t provide snacks for the students anymore. Please send your children to school with their own snack..I can’t teach them when they’re hungry and begging me for food.
Decaturparent
July 30th, 2009
10:46 am
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.
mom of 3
July 30th, 2009
10:53 am
I do not understand why schools don’t just ask for a one time upfront fee of say $15-$20 for your student for the entire school year. The shool can purchase the basic & necessary supplies (pencils,pens, crayons, paper, tisues, glue, markers…..) in BULK at a much cheaper price. If the teacher would like specialty items (specific brands/types of notebooks, ruled paper, ink pens) then the teacher can pay for it. And I have no problem with parents making “donations” to their childs classroom for colored paper, craft stuff, etc, as long as request does not come as “required items”. I sent 3 kids through public school, and I have seen a lot of stupid requests from teachers. I am suprised I was not asked to supply toilet paper. (maybe I was and chose to forget) The basics people, kids only need the basics.
Old School
July 30th, 2009
10:55 am
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.
Bitter much?
July 30th, 2009
11:08 am
The attitudes of some of the teachers on this thread is why I’ll be sending my little one to private school. If you don’t like your job, find another one.
high school teacher
July 30th, 2009
11:12 am
“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.
Teacher&mom
July 30th, 2009
11:16 am
No, I will not be purchasing supplies for my students. In my school system, teachers are expected to purchase their own supplies…i.e. paperclips, dry-erase markers, staples, paper, etc. I simply don’t have the extra $$$ to spend this year. Instead, that money is going into savings to prepare for more furlough days. The state board of educ. does not approve an additional 7 more furlough days on a whim. They know further cuts are headed down the pike.
In the past, I would use my “Sonny $” to purchase lab supplies then I would supplement the added expenses out of my own pocket. I will not be purchasing any supplies this year. My principal has already told us that no purchase orders will be approved any time soon. Therefore, my labs will be cut to the bone this year.
I’m sure that I’m the only one who cares that my science classes will have fewer labs. Kathy Cox and Sonny Perdue don’t give a rip. As long as the test scores are favorable, they’ll continue to convince themselves they are making a positive difference in GA.
My own kids will go to school with the basic supplies needed to learn…paper, pencils, notebooks, etc. I will not be sending them with hand sanitizer or kleenex. Laura mentioned that the lack of hand sanitizer may be a concern due to H1D1, I suspect schools will be closed in an instant if the virus takes hold next fall. Actually, Sonny will probably see it as the perfect opportunity to save a few bucks. Anyone remember the school closings following Hurricane Katrina?
abacus2
July 30th, 2009
11:16 am
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!
WARNING: They Are Watching.
July 30th, 2009
11:19 am
WARNING: They Are Watching.
Do NOT blog in your classroom — not even on your lap top. They are on to you. Seriously, you will be caught. Don’t say that we did not warn you. Your lap top CAN be confiscated for investigation. DON’t. I repeat. DON’T blog in your classroom no matter what the students are doing. Do you hear this…jim d, Art Teacher, d, tc, gw.teacher, catlady, Science Teacher 671, and all of the 200 or 300 “cousins” (same personality under different monikers)? Don’t let your blogging bring you down. Being a blogaholic is not unlike any other addiction. First, attend meetings…”Hi, one of my names is ‘jim d,’ and I am a blogaholic.”
Turd Ferguson
July 30th, 2009
11:20 am
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.
mom of 3
July 30th, 2009
11:22 am
Because I am not a teacher, you don’t post my comment?
abacus2
July 30th, 2009
11:22 am
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!
Bloggers Anonymous (BA) Meeting in DeKalb. Can Sarah Cope-lin Wood explain to us...
July 30th, 2009
11:32 am
The Blogges Anonymous (BA) Meeting will be held at the Connie Slyvestor Glanton Recreation Center. We will meet in the back conference room at the Sly Center on August 9th at 6:00 P.M. Topic: “Has the inaction of the DeKalb County Board of Education vis-a-vis the lack of student decorum and discipline in the schools driven teachers to inordinate blogging to cope with the attending stress?” We hope that Sarah Cope-lin Wood and Zepora Roberts can explain why the school board has not gotten rid of that clown that it has for a superintendent, Crawford Lewis.
Homer
July 30th, 2009
11:32 am
Teachers I commend your stance!! Let the stupid parents of these impolite stupid little street urchins supply said urchins with paper, pens etc.
Gwinnett Educator
July 30th, 2009
11:36 am
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.
Grown A$$ Teacher
July 30th, 2009
11:37 am
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.
Gwinnett Educator
July 30th, 2009
11:37 am
(I apologize if the first post shows up)
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.
Gwinnett Educator
July 30th, 2009
11:39 am
testing
Teacher&mom
July 30th, 2009
11:40 am
Bitter much – I usually don’t respond to comments such as “I’m sending my little one to private school and if you don’t like your job work somewhere else.” However, today I am responding.
I absolutely LOVE teaching and I’m a good teacher. For the most part I am surrounded by good teachers who are dedicated and professional. This “attitude” you are talking about is not present in my school.
However, I wonder what the “attitude” of your private school would be if you were 2-3 months behind in your tuition? Somehow I find it hard to believe they would be very positive and affirming. I suspect they may tell you that if you don’t like their fees, then find another school.
And if your little one happened to land in my classroom, I can assure you he/she would be respected and receive a quality education.
Gwinnett Educator
July 30th, 2009
11:40 am
(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.
Sad state of affairs
July 30th, 2009
11:40 am
As a parent, I’m buying my kids’ school supplies. I want my children to have what they need to succeed.
As an educator, I’m buying some things for my students. It’s not their fault that we have an incompetent governor, and a county school superintendent that thinks education is a business and students are customers. Sorry, I just threw up in my mouth.
As for the “bitter much” poster above: I’m glad you are in a position to send your child to private school, but rubbing your affluence an grade-school advice “find another job” in the face of others is just rude. I wish your child’s teachers all the luck in dealing with you. I’m sure they will need it.
Blogaholic
July 30th, 2009
11:40 am
True blogaholics aren’t worried. We use our personal blackberries instead of school-supplied computers & ISPs.
Way Down South
July 30th, 2009
12:07 pm
Bye, Bitter.
Bev
July 30th, 2009
12:16 pm
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!
Gwinnett Educator
July 30th, 2009
12:26 pm
UGH…My APOLOGIES for that post showing up 3 times. The one day that I take a chance on reposting..it shows up. I AM SORRY YOU ALL!!!
Bitter much?
July 30th, 2009
12:32 pm
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.
The responsible teacher
July 30th, 2009
12:39 pm
Because the teacher is fully responsible for the child’s performance, any supplies not provided by the parent must be provided by the teacher. Regardless of what ever else the parent chooses to spend money on, be it an new cell phone for their child to start the new school year, several hundred dollars worth of clothes, what ever the case may be, the teacher is responsible, not the parent.
The voice teachers have chosen to speak for them, GAE, brags about the several hundred dollars a year teachers spend out of their own pockets. To the best of my knowledge, they’ve never taken a position against this, or argued philosophically that the providing of such materials to that extent is counterproductive to the goal of students becoming self sufficient adults.
Since the voice that teachers have chosen to speak for them appears to condone the practice, and doesn’t appear to have ever condemned it, now it’s become the established practice.
Since teachers have enabled this with their own choices, rather than take any real stand, then teachers should do with school supplies the same thing Sonny Perdue, Kathy Cox, GAE and PAGE expect them to do as far as working in classrooms during furloughs.
Whine, then comply.
mocha momma
July 30th, 2009
12:40 pm
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.
Bitter much?
July 30th, 2009
12:42 pm
One doesn’t have to be affluent to send their children to private school. They just have to be willing to make sacrifices and stick to a strict budget.
Tcherlady
July 30th, 2009
12:42 pm
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.
Hey Blogaholic, Where is BABY today?
July 30th, 2009
12:57 pm
Was my last very delicious insightful comment googled up by the Blog Monster?
The incompetent AJC
July 30th, 2009
12:59 pm
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.
ScienceTeacher671
July 30th, 2009
1:05 pm
The students without supplies all seem to have cell phones, too. Go figure.
In our system, we aren’t allowed to ask for supply fees from parents, because it wouldn’t be fair to low-income parents who might not be able to afford to pay them.
Hey Blogaholic, Where is BABY today?
July 30th, 2009
1:16 pm
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!
Southside teacher
July 30th, 2009
1:22 pm
In the past I have stocked up on supplies for all those occasions when kids don’t have basics. This year, I just can’t. I will keep some things on hand for the true hardship cases, but the others will just have to take responsibility for their own supplies.
This will sound like bitterness, but it’s just reality. I’m tired of raising other people’s children. I can not support my household and yours too.
Responsible teaching
July 30th, 2009
1:25 pm
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.
Gwinnett Educator
July 30th, 2009
1:26 pm
my GOODNESS!! If there is ever a day where the AJC has screwed up my comments, it is today! I see that my original post finally made it ..several hrs later.
Again you all, I do apologize for the multiple posts. Have a great day!
Teacher, Too
July 30th, 2009
1:50 pm
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.
Where is De
July 30th, 2009
2:44 pm
Enter your comments here
high school teacher
July 30th, 2009
2:52 pm
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.”
Where is DeKalb GAE?
July 30th, 2009
2:58 pm
Has DeKalb GAE mentioned the extra hundred million dollars in administrative salaries compared to Fulton, as a possible source of cuts, so that teachers can have supplies essential to teaching? No it’s not DeKalb GAE’s responsibility to make the cuts, but it is their responsibility, if they are going to be a true voice for what’s best for students and teachers to demand, forcefully and publicly demand, it be put on the table.
If the answer to both questions is no, and I suspect it is, then DeKalb GAE teachers need to do exactly what Crawford Lewis, Sonny Perdue, Kathy Cox, and DeKalb GAE expect them to do when it comes to supplies, when it comes to teaching conditions, and when it comes to future cuts to pay and benefits.
Whine, then comply.
Where is DeKalb GAE?
July 30th, 2009
3:05 pm
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.
I absolutely support my teachers
July 30th, 2009
3:16 pm
Grown A$$ Teacher: I sure hope you never teach my child with your nasty attitude.
I am happy to support my teacher and my child with supplies (and I do), but how about if it was spread out throughout the year? I buy the staples up front but usually wait to get some items until I know there is a need for them. For example, my child’s teacher had so many disinfectant wipes and tissues left over at the end of the year last year that she could have wallpapered her class room with them! At the same time, at a relatively low cost we were able to supply the entire classroom 4 times over with gluesticks when we learned the they needed them mid-way through the school year.
Supporter of Teachers in our Public Schools
July 30th, 2009
3:21 pm
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.
say what?
July 30th, 2009
3:44 pm
There are some mean teachers in schools. Glad they are not with my kids. As I realize teacher’s don”t make lots of money, and some parents are clueless about the needs of the student and the classroom, I take care of my kids’ teachers (all 12 teachers). Teachers aren’t demanding a whole lot, so while supplies are drastically low this weekend, I stock up and provide resources for the classrooms if necessary. It is a partnership between the home and school for children to have a successful learning experience. For the people who just cannot fathom purchasing for students and teachers, you reap what you so- in some cases you are getting nothing.
As far as kleenex for the room, I gladly provide for teachers just as I provide tissue on my desk. I don’t want other folks germs, and I don’t mind spending $20 every 2 months on bulk purchase of tissue, if it will save me a $35 copay to the doctor for me or my kids.
Teachers tend to want everything to be perfect in a classroom to meet unattainable expectations of what a beautiful, engaging classroom should be. Take this hard lesson in budget constraints and don’t try to make a room look “right” because every teacher, every student, every parent has a different interpretation of what is right.
oldtimer
July 30th, 2009
3:44 pm
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.
ScienceTeacher671
July 30th, 2009
3:55 pm
How much is it costing the state to develop the new math curriculum and the associated standardized tests to go along with it, and how much is it costing districts to purchase the new math textbooks needed for the new curriculum?
Also Veteran
July 30th, 2009
3:57 pm
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 $$ for hand sanitizer for them, but that may have to go by the wayside this year. Last year the kids would almost bathe in the stuff after lunch, but no one ever replenished the supply but me. With the cuts we have had to accept, something has to go.
And Bitter Much? You are barking up the wrong tree on this blog. These folks are very dedicated. Frustrated, maybe, but that’s different. Check out your facts before spewing negativity. And may I suggest keeping your kids in private school . . .
Grown A$$ Teacher
July 30th, 2009
3:57 pm
high school teacher
Non metro and I am sooo sorry if I got your panties in an uproar. I call them as I see them. Btw I’m glad I’m not teaching your little monsters. I have enough of my own.
new parent
July 30th, 2009
4:02 pm
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.
Supporter of Teachers in our Public Schools
July 30th, 2009
4:19 pm
I guess Bitter Much went to enroll her privileged daughter in private school.
high school teacher
July 30th, 2009
4:29 pm
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.
how it works
July 30th, 2009
4:32 pm
When teachers send “the list” they expect only a small percentage will actually get the stuff on the list. It is shared with everyone because most will not have their own stuff. Most people would be appalled at the number of students who show up daily with NO materials (not even paper!). Students always ask me for pencils, paper, hand sanitizer, etc…I refuse to provide those materials. I remind them that it is their parents who get the tax deduction for them, not me. I have had a few parents get nasty and insist that it is my job to provide the “basics” if their kid “forgets” or “lost” their stuff. I mention that we can let DFACS settle the argument about who is really responsible for the materials.
Shaking head
July 30th, 2009
5:07 pm
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.
Kathy Cox embarrasses us again
July 30th, 2009
5:31 pm
This is what Kathy Cox said in regard to the need for the stimulus money
“They’re down to the bone,” Cox said. “The fat was gone a long time ago. They’re down to the bone.”
You have a system, DeKalb, that according to reports, has an extra one hundred million dollars in administrative salaries compared to Fulton, and Kathy Cox says the fat is all gone?
What is it we lead the nation in again, student success or educator embarrassment?
Rosie
July 30th, 2009
5:36 pm
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.
Teacher and mother of 4
July 30th, 2009
5:54 pm
As a teacher I would appreciate it if you would send your child prepared the entire year (not just in August). This ensures that in the 3rd quarter your child that you were VERY HAPPY TO SEND TO ME will have supplies. **I have given out more paper, pencils and other supplies that I have purchased with my own money only to find many of these items wasted. Eraser caps broken up and thrown around the room, paper turned into airplanes, and pencils broken. On my supppy list, I ask for annual supplies. These supplies can be obtained for pennies on the dollar during August (”Back to School Shopping”) but may be very inflated in January. I do not want your child’s supplies for myself but rather allow them to keep them either at home or in a personal cubby. I plan for the entire year. This helps the parents in the ong run. For students with issues with lost and “stolen” pencils, I put a zip lock bag in my desk with his name on it. He can come to me and ask for another. This decreases theft of the items that you worked hard to pay for.
I have taught students who have no supplies, free lunch (yet get ice cream daily–WTF!!)and have shoes more expensive than any of my own 4 children. In the parent’s defense, I am clearly aware of financial difficulty (I AM A SINGLE PARENT MYSELF). Parents who write me with a legitimate issue get my attention. I have personally purchased a LOT of school supplies for children who were not mine. As an aside, just this past year, one of those same students who had no money for supplies (and I purchased them myself) came to EVERY Scholastic book fair and spent at least $25. I give my own chidren $5.
Need for help is very different from a lack of support. Teachers want to make your child’s education special and memorable. That often includes pictures, painting, art projects etc. We could do it without those items, but when crayons are .15 per box, why choose? Many parents drink, smoke or drive an extra mile that could purchase an extra supply for their own child. I advise all parents to buy at this time of year when the stores are practically giving away supplies. I do. My classroom (and 4 children) have enough supplies stocked for the entire year. I save a fortune.
Work smarter!
Wondering
July 30th, 2009
5:58 pm
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!
TW
July 30th, 2009
5:59 pm
I don’t see what any of this has to do with Sonny’s $27 million fishing pond, or ‘w’s golf swing. Through their ignorance, the voters of GA have eagerly screwed their kids.
Here's your answer wondering
July 30th, 2009
6:05 pm
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.
Hey How It Works
July 30th, 2009
6:17 pm
As a teacher, I have inventoried the “list” for students. At the end of the first week I write in the student’s agenda and advise the parent of what is missing. *I also require a parent signature. This allows the parent to get the items over the weekend. By Wednesday, or so, of the following week I send another notice. This serves as three. The first was the school “list”, the second my note and the third was the Wednesday letter. If I do not get a response I leave it alone. If a parent cannot/does not get supplies when they are at rock-bottom priced I leave it alone. I will NOT however allow students to “mix” paper and pencils. Only glue sticks and maybe crayons become communal. Additionally, kleenex and sanitizer are placed at the door and work centers for all to use. **I ration those out based on supply on hand. As you child does not have any/enough supplies, they are required to write you (the parent) a note in their agenda with a deadline to get what is needed. As it relates to kleenex, I had a paper towel holder that I placed 3 rolls of toilet tissue (school issued). Once our class ran out (and it was ALWAYS THE SAME ONES WHO NEVER CONTRIBUTED USING IT ALL UP) we implemented the bath tissue. The kids initially talk about it a lot, but after a few days it becomes second nature. Tissue is tissue, especially when I will not allow you to go to the restroom to blow your nose (and waste time… get into trouble…).
As a teacher, I am protecting the supplies that you purchase for YOUR CHILD. I do not encourage them giving them away and having them walk away.
catlady
July 30th, 2009
6:19 pm
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.
say what?
July 30th, 2009
6:35 pm
Looking at these horrible attitudes in the Bible belt I wonder which came first: the parents distrust of the teachers, the students indifference to learning, or the teachers disdain of students who have no control over the parents they have? Either one continues the cycle of problems in the schools.
how it works
July 30th, 2009
6:36 pm
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?
Jeff
July 30th, 2009
6:59 pm
Teacher and mother of 4
Have you ever heard of birth control? The reason you might be struggling is because you whelped too many kids. Single parent huh? I can guess your families demographics with 99.99% accuracy.
catlady
July 30th, 2009
7:05 pm
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.
gwinnett high school teacher
July 30th, 2009
7:40 pm
Every year I go to Big Lots or Walmart and buy 100 pencils and pens and 1000 sheets of paper. I make a presentation during the first day of class telling students that these pencils and pens and paper are for the whole year..when they run out that is it and they won’t be replenished.With that being said it isn’t necessary to belittle students for forgetting materials or have them leave their shoes for collateral by my desk-(teachers actually do this!)I am always amazed that most students borrow a pen/pencil and return it at the end of the period. Believe it or not I had 20 pencils and pens at the end of the year and I taught 135 kids.Grand total of money spent-$5-7. As far as tissues are concerned I also snag a roll from the teacher bathroom and kids use toilet paper for their noses. This year during open house I will tell parents about our need for hand sanitizer and tissues-even though my school is not in an affluent area the parents do care.We can’t let this get us down-we will survive .
nicole
July 30th, 2009
7:57 pm
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?
Veteran teacher, 2
July 30th, 2009
10:21 pm
I can’t believe the question is even being asked. Next, people will expect the teacher to learn the material for each student, too. Of course, students and their parents are responsible for their basic supplies!!
The Cool Teacher
July 30th, 2009
10:35 pm
I forgo the tissue – why waste it? I just tell the kids to wipe the nose/face on their hands/sleeve. Works for me.
BABY SAY
July 30th, 2009
11:09 pm
WERE MY COO=MMETN GOESS A OUR A GO???
jeff, you silly boy;D
July 30th, 2009
11:19 pm
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.
Dr. Craig Spinks /Evans
July 31st, 2009
1:25 am
Parents are responsible, of course. But what about school supplies for the kids of irresponsible parents and for the kids of parents who lack the necessary funds? In Richmond County, our area Wal-Mart stores will give away school supplies to parents who attend the 2nd annual PTA Community-Wide “Back-to-School” Festival which will kick off the new school year.
gwinnettteacher
July 31st, 2009
6:44 am
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!
Bitter much?
July 31st, 2009
7:22 am
Supporter of Teachers in our Public Schools,
Did I strike a nerve? Both, my wife and I, go to work everyday & contribute to the GDP. You sure missed the mark! I don’t mind teachers venting, but I would never want my kid taught by a person who would call her a monster. If you don’t mind having your son denigrated, in such a way, that is your right. I would never insult you for it.
teacher
July 31st, 2009
7:27 am
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.
trell
July 31st, 2009
7:57 am
You think parents should purchase copy paper? I really think this is something the schools should supply.
mom
July 31st, 2009
8:00 am
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!
trell
July 31st, 2009
8:00 am
This economic crunch will bring out the “real” teachers, it will separate the ones who are in it for the money and those who are in it for the children. It will weed out the teachers who really made the wrong career choice. My children have had wonderful teachers, and I come from a generation of teachers.
I just don't get it.
July 31st, 2009
8:09 am
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.
I just don't get it.
July 31st, 2009
8:12 am
Our list this year has a BOLD statement at the top of the page. DO NOT PUT CHILDS NAME ON ITEMS – ALL ITEMS ARE COMMUNAL. That just ticks me off right there. I am telling my son’s teacher straight up front that the items that I buy are for him and him only.
I just don't get it.
July 31st, 2009
8:15 am
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.
Berny
July 31st, 2009
8:31 am
It is absolutely the parents’ responsbility to provide school supplies for their child. Having said that, I personally don’t consider paper towels, etc., school supplies. I empathize with the teachers who have to teach the children of these sorry parents who send their children to school without even a pencil.
I have a question for the teachers. What would happen if you just refused? By that I mean, if a child came to school unprepared (without paper, pencils, etc.) you teach anyway and not worry about whether he/she took notes, etc., given the fact that he/she came to school unprepared.
When I was PTA president at the local elementary school, I had a parent tell me that it was not her responsibility to buy school supplies for her son. She said that this was a public school and the public should provide for him.
I personally am tired of all of this foolishness and I am NOT a teacher. Why can’t teachers just say no to anything besides teaching and those activities associated with teaching?
AP Teacher
July 31st, 2009
8:59 am
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?
Courtney
July 31st, 2009
9:45 am
Everybody should be responsible for themselves. If you come to class unprepared then you should be ready for punishment.
how it works
July 31st, 2009
10:29 am
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!).
jim d
July 31st, 2009
11:26 am
Berny,
Why? you ask.
Well it’s just the nature of the beast–teachers canot say no to anything including pay cuts. It goes against their nature. I assure you that many of teachers saying NO here wil end up spending their own money regardless of how tuff they come across on these blogs.
high school teacher
July 31st, 2009
11:47 am
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.
Rosie
July 31st, 2009
12:45 pm
Communal supplies is an idea that comes from communism. Most parents can afford to buy supplies for their children. It isn’t the really poor kids without supplies. It is the thugs wearing brand new jeans at their knees w/expensive jerseys and shirts along with brand new hundred dollar shoes. Not to mention the cell phones in their pockets. These same students get free lunch, but buy soft drinks and snacks during lunch or have bookbags full of food. No pencil, paper, calculator, etc. As a teacher I would help a real poor kid, but I’m not helping a kid with an extreme disrespect for public education.
4 the kids
July 31st, 2009
4:22 pm
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.