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The Ultimate Classroom Supply Checklist: 30+ Must-Have Items for Teachers [2024] 🏫
Imagine walking into your classroom and everything is perfectly organized — colorful supplies ready for creative projects, a cozy reading corner inviting students to unwind, and engaging tools to spark a love of learning. ✨ It’s a dream come true for any teacher, and with the right classroom supplies, you’re one step closer to making it a reality! 🎉 We’re here to help you make the most of your classroom budget. From the essentials you can’t live without to clever hacks that will save time and energy, we’ve got the ultimate classroom supply checklist you need to create a vibrant and engaging learning environment for your students.
Quick Answers
What are the most crucial classroom supplies?
- Organization: Folders, bins, shelving, labels, a calendar, and a desk organizer are must-have for managing supplies and materials.
- Communication & Collaboration: Whiteboards, dry-erase markers, post-it notes, and bulletin boards are essential for engaging students in discussions and group projects.
- Technology: Laptops, projectors, and interactive whiteboards can offer a variety of learning opportunities and enhance student engagement.
- Art & Creativity: Crayons, markers, construction paper, scissors, and glue sticks are essential for unleashing creativity and encouraging imaginative projects. 🎨
- Reading & Writing: Pencils, pencil sharpeners, lined paper, and dictionaries are essential for daily learning and encouraging literacy. 📚
Ready to shop for these must-have supplies?
👉 Shop Classroom Supplies on: | Amazon | Walmart | Teacher Supply Store™
Table of Contents
- Quick Tips and Facts
- Classroom Supply Essentials: A Teacher’s Must-Have List
- Best Back to School Ideas 🍏
- The MUST-HAVE Classroom Supplies…
- Classroom Supplies: You’re All Set! 🎉
- More Resources!
- Popular in the Store
- You may also enjoy…
- Conclusion
- Recommended Links
- Reference Links
Quick Tips and Facts
Want to make the most of your classroom budget? 🤑 Teacher Supply Store™ is your go-to for all things education. We’ve got expert teacher tips and classroom supply insights that’ll help you create the perfect learning environment! 📚
Did you know? 🤯 The average teacher spends about $750 per year on classroom supplies! That’s a lot of money, and it’s not always easy to know what to prioritize. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! 🤝
Here are a few quick tips to get you started:
- Plan Ahead: Before you head to the store, create a detailed classroom supply checklist based on your grade level, subject, and teaching style. 📝
- Get Creative: There are tons of budget-friendly ways to make your classroom exciting – think DIY decorations, recycled materials, and student-made projects. 🎨
- 👉 Shop Smart: Compare prices, look for sales, and take advantage of teacher discounts. 💸
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help! Your school, community organizations, or local businesses may offer donation programs or grant opportunities for classroom supplies. 😉
Let’s dive into the must-have classroom supplies every teacher needs! 👇
Classroom Supply Essentials: A Teacher’s Must-Have List
No matter what grade you teach, there are some essential classroom supplies that every teacher needs. 🎒 These items are your foundation for creating a successful learning environment.
- Organization: Folders, bins, shelving, and storage solutions are non-negotiable for managing classroom clutter and keeping student materials organized. ✅ Don’t forget labels! 📝
- Communication & Collaboration: Whiteboards, dry-erase markers, post-it notes, and bulletin boards are essential for engaging students, sharing information, and facilitating collaboration. ✅ Think outside the box with creative bulletin board displays to make learning fun! 🎉
- Technology: Laptops, projectors, and interactive whiteboards are becoming increasingly common in classrooms. They offer a variety of learning opportunities and enhance student engagement in new ways. You might also consider classroom tablets for individualized learning.
- Art & Creativity: Crayons, markers, construction paper, scissors, and glue sticks are must-haves for engaging students’ creative sides and fostering their artistic talents. 🎨 Think of the endless possibilities for student-made projects, from colorful posters to 3D sculptures! 🤯
- Reading & Writing: Pencils, pencil sharpeners, lined paper, and dictionaries are essential for daily learning and encouraging a love of language in your students. 📚 Encourage your students to read, write, and explore new worlds! ✨
Ready to build your classroom supply arsenal? Let’s go! 👇
Best Back to School Ideas 🍏
It’s that time of year! 🍂 Back to school season is upon us, which means lots of excitement and maybe a little bit of stress… BUT don’t worry! We’ve got all the best tips and tricks to make your classroom prep a breeze! 🌬️
Here are some of our favorite back-to-school ideas:
- Start with a clean slate: Make sure your classroom is sparkling clean before you start decorating. It’ll set the stage for a fresh start and inspire your students to be ready to learn. 🏫
- Decorate with personality: Make your classroom feel like your own by adding your own touches. Think bright colors, inspiring quotes, and student-made artwork. 🎨 Let your creativity shine!
- Set up your reading corner: Create a comfortable and inviting space where students can curl up with a good book. 📚 Don’t forget comfy cushions, colorful beanbags, and a good selection of books for all reading levels.
- Organize your learning centers: Think about the different learning activities you’ll be doing in your classroom and set up dedicated centers for each one. Label them clearly and make sure everything is easy to find. ✅ Organization is key! 💯
- Make it social: Create a positive classroom community by setting up a “Welcome” area where students can share their interests and get to know each other. 🤝 Encourage collaboration and help build a sense of belonging in your classroom. ❤️
Ready to get started with the MUST-HAVE classroom supplies? Let’s go! 👇
The MUST-HAVE Classroom Supplies…
Now that we have a grasp of essential classroom supplies, let’s get into the nitty-gritty! We’ve put together a detailed guide to the MUST-HAVE supplies for every classroom.
Pencils ✏️
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Durability | 9 |
| Writing Quality | 8 |
| Erasability | 7 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
**In the world of pencils, Ticonderoga pencils reign supreme!**👑 Their smooth graphite makes writing a breeze, and their strong construction means they can withstand even the roughest handling. You’ll be amazed at how long a single pencil can last!
Benefits:
- Durable: Ticonderoga pencils are known for their strength and resilience, making them perfect for classroom use. 💪
- Writing Quality: Smooth graphite and consistent lead make writing clear and comfortable. ✍️
- Erasability: The graphite erases easily without leaving behind a smudge! ✅
- Value for Money: They’re affordable and last longer than other brands, making them a great investment for your classroom. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Durability: While Ticonderoga pencils are durable, they may break if dropped, so be sure to emphasize proper pencil care to your students. 💔
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Ticonderoga Pencils: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Pencil Sharpener
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Durability | 9 |
| Sharpness Quality | 8 |
| Ease of Use | 8 |
| Safety | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
The best pencil sharpener for any classroom is the tried-and-true Bostitch SuperPro Electric Pencil Sharpener! ⚡ This powerful sharpener can handle a classroom full of pencils with ease.
Benefits:
- Durability: This sharpener is built to last. Made with high-quality materials, it can handle years of use.💪
- Sharpness Quality: It consistently produces sharp points without breaking or dulling the pencils.
- Ease of Use: Simple to operate with a large collection bin, making it easy for students to sharpen their pencils. ✅
- Safety: Safe and user-friendly for students of all grades.
- A great investment! 👍
Drawbacks:
- Cost: More expensive than manual pencil sharpeners, but worth the investment for durability and efficiency. 💰
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Bostitch SuperPro Pencil Sharpener: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Glue Sticks
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Adhesive Strength | 8 |
| Ease of Use | 9 |
| Drying Time | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Glue sticks are a classroom staple for a reason! They’re easy to use, non-messy, and perfect for a variety of projects, from simple crafts to intricate collages. ✨
Benefits:
- Ease of Use: Easy to apply and control for both adults and children. ✅
- Non-Messy: No drips or spills, reducing the chance of sticky fingers and messy projects.
- Drying Time: Dries quickly but doesn’t dry out too fast, giving you time to adjust your project.
- Versatile: Great for a variety of materials, including paper, cardboard, and fabric.
Drawbacks:
- Adhesive Strength: While effective for most projects, some types of glue sticks may not be strong enough for heavier materials.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Elmer’s Glue Sticks: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Construction Paper
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Color vibrancy | 9 |
| Durability | 8 |
| Versatility | 9 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Construction paper is a classroom must-have! 🎨 It’s versatile, colorful, and perfect for a variety of creative projects.
Benefits:
- Vibrant Colors: Construction paper comes in a wide range of colors, making it perfect for adding a touch of vibrancy to any project.
- Durability: Strong and sturdy, it can withstand daily use in the classroom.
- Versatility: Perfect for a variety of projects, from origami to paper airplanes and even bulletin board displays.
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in bulk, making it a great investment for your classroom. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Color Fade: Some construction paper colors may fade over time, especially if exposed to direct sunlight.
👉 Shop Construction Paper on: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Crayons 🖍️
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Color vibrancy | 9 |
| Durability | 8 |
| Smoothness | 9 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Crayola crayons are a classroom classic for a reason! 🏆 Vibrant colors, smooth application, and durability make them perfect for young artists of all ages.
Benefits:
- Vibrant Colors: Crayola crayons offer a wide range of colors, making them perfect for expressing creativity.
- Durability: They don’t break easily, making them perfect for rough play and daily use in the classroom. 💪
- Smoothness: Apply smoothly to paper, allowing for easy blending and shading.
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in a variety of sizes, including individual packs and bulk sets. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Melting Point: Crayons can melt in hot weather and become difficult to use, so it’s important to store them properly.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Crayola Crayons: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Lined Paper
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Quality | 8 |
| Durability | 7 |
| Versatility | 8 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 7.5 |
Lined paper is essential for both handwriting practice and creative writing. ✍️ Choose different line widths according to your students’ grade level.
Benefits:
- Quality: Good quality lined paper makes handwriting clear and legible.
- Durability: Durable paper can withstand erasing and repeated use.
- Versatility: Can be used for a variety of activities, from writing practice to creative projects.
- Line Widths: Available in primary, wide-ruled, and college-ruled, offering options for students of all ages.
Drawbacks:
- Color: May not be available in a variety of colors, which can limit creative expression.
👉 Shop Lined Paper on: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Printer Paper
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Print Quality | 8 |
| Durability | 7 |
| Brightness | 8 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8 |
Printer paper is a must-have for teachers who rely on technology to teach. 💻 It’s essential for printing out worksheets, handouts, and other classroom materials.
Benefits:
- Print Quality: High-quality printer paper ensures that your printouts look sharp and clear.
- Durability: Strong and sturdy, it resists tearing and ripping, especially when printing on both sides.
- Brightness: Bright white paper makes it easier for students to read and see the text clearly.
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in bulk, making it a great investment for your classroom. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Durability: May not be as durable as cardstock, so it’s important to handle it with care.
👉 Shop Printer Paper on: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Books 📚
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Variety | 9 |
| Condition | 8 |
| Accessibility | 8 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Building a fantastic classroom library is a journey, not a destination. 📚 Start by gathering books that align with your curriculum and reflect the interests of your students.
Benefits:
- Variety: Offer a wide selection of books for different reading levels and interests.
- Condition: Invest in high-quality books that are durable and in good condition.
- Accessibility: Make sure your books are easy to access and organized in a way that makes sense for your students.
- Value for Money: Consider joining Scholastic Book Clubs or getting donations from local libraries to build your library on a budget.
Drawbacks:
- Cost: Books can be expensive, but don’t be afraid to get creative and explore alternative sources.
👉 Shop Children’s Books on: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Tape
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Adhesive Strength | 9 |
| Durability | 8 |
| Ease of Use | 9 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Scotch tape is a classroom essential for a variety of tasks, from fixing papers to creating crafts.
Benefits:
- Adhesive Strength: Strong and sticky to secure papers and materials.
- Durability: Lasts a long time and doesn’t tear easily.
- Ease of Use: Easy to dispense and easy to tear.
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in a variety of sizes. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Messy: Can leave behind sticky residue if not used properly.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Scotch Tape: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Stapler/Staples
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Durability | 9 |
| Ease of Use | 8 |
| Stapling Power | 9 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
A heavy-duty stapler is a must-have for any busy classroom. 💪 It’s essential for organizing papers, creating projects, and keeping everything tidy.
Benefits:
- Durability: Durable staplers can withstand frequent use and handle a variety of paper thicknesses. 💪
- Ease of Use: Easy to load and operate, making them perfect for students of all ages.
- Stapling Power: Strong enough to staple through multiple pages, even cardstock.
- Value for Money: Durable staplers are a great investment that can last for years.
Drawbacks:
- Cost: More expensive than basic staplers, but worth the investment for durability and efficiency. 💰
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Swingline Stapler: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Sticky Notes
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Stickiness | 9 |
| Color Variety | 9 |
| Size Variety | 8 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Sticky notes are a versatile tool for teachers and students. They’re perfect for writing down quick notes, highlighting important information, and leaving reminders.
Benefits:
- Stickiness: Super-sticky notes stay firmly in place, even on rough surfaces.
- Color Variety: Available in a wide range of colors, making it easy to organize and categorize ideas.
- Size Variety: Available in a variety of sizes, so you can choose the perfect notes for different tasks.
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in bulk, making them a great investment for your classroom. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Stickiness: Can sometimes leave behind a sticky residue if not used properly.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Post-it Notes: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Folders
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Durability | 9 |
| Organization | 9 |
| Versatility | 8 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Folders are essential for keeping student work organized and papers from getting lost. 📁 Use different colors for different subjects or projects to make it easy for students to find what they need! 🌈
Benefits:
- Durability: Durable folders can withstand daily use and prevent papers from getting damaged.
- Organization: Three-prong folders with pockets help organize assignments, handouts, and other important documents.
- Versatility: Can be used for a variety of purposes, from homework assignments to classroom projects.
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in a variety of colors and styles. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Size: Some folders may be too small for certain documents or projects.
👉 Shop Folders on: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Markers
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Color Vibrancy | 9 |
| Durability | 8 |
| Ink Quality | 8 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Markers are essential for colorful projects, classroom displays, and interactive activities. 🖍️
Benefits:
- Color Vibrancy: Markers come in a wide range of vibrant colors, making them perfect for adding a splash of color to any project.
- Durability: Durable markers last longer and don’t bleed through paper easily.
- Ink Quality: High-quality ink flows smoothly and doesn’t skip or smudge.
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in a variety of sizes, including individual packs and bulk sets. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Messy: Markers can be messy if not used carefully.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Crayola Markers: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Scissors ✂️
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Durability | 9 |
| Sharpness | 8 |
| Safety | 9 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Scissors are an essential tool for various crafts, projects, and everyday uses in the classroom. ✂️ Invest in high-quality scissors for yourself and safety scissors for your students.
Benefits:
- Durability: Durable scissors last longer and don’t break easily, even with frequent use.
- Sharpness: Sharp scissors make clean cuts without jagged edges.
- Safety: Safety scissors are designed with rounded tips to prevent injuries. ✅
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in a variety of sizes, including small scissors for young children and larger scissors for older students.
Drawbacks:
- Durability: Low-quality scissors may break with frequent use.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Fiskars Scissors: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Dry Erase Markers – Skinny and Chisel
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Durability | 8 |
| Ink Quality | 9 |
| Erasability | 9 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Expo dry erase markers are the gold standard for classrooms. 🏆 Their bold colors, smooth writing, and easy erasability make them perfect for whiteboards, interactive displays, and even student work.
Benefits:
- Durability: Expo markers last longer than other brands and have a consistent ink flow.
- Ink Quality: Smooth writing and bold colors make them easy to read and see.
- Erasability: Erase cleanly without leaving behind a residue or ghosting. ✅
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in a variety of colors and tip styles. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Durability: May dry out if left uncapped for too long.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Expo Dry Erase Markers: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Pens 🖊️
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Ink Quality | 9 |
| Durability | 8 |
| Smudge Resistance | 8 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Pens are essential for teacher notes, grading papers, and creating fun and colorful activities. 🖊️
Benefits:
- Ink Quality: Smooth-flowing ink makes writing a pleasure and doesn’t skip or smudge easily.
- Durability: Durable pens last longer and can withstand daily use.
- Smudge Resistance: Smudge-resistant ink prevents blobbing and keeps your work looking clean.
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in a variety of colors and styles. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Durability: Low-quality pens may leak or dry out quickly.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Bic Cristal Pens: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Clear Page Protectors
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Durability | 9 |
| Clarity | 9 |
| Versatility | 9 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
Clear page protectors are a versatile tool that every teacher should have! They can be used for creating instant whiteboards, protecting papers, and making mini wipe-off boards for objectives.
Benefits:
- Durability: Durable page protectors last a long time and resist tearing and ripping.
- Clarity: Clear and transparent, allowing for easy visibility of the content underneath.
- Versatility: Can be used for a variety of activities, making them a valuable addition to any classroom.
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in bulk. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Durability: Some page protectors may scratch easily, so it’s important to handle them with care.
👉 Shop Clear Page Protectors on: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Calendar
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Durability | 8 |
| Functionality | 9 |
| Versatility | 8 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 8.5 |
A calendar is essential for keeping track of important dates, deadlines, and events in the classroom. 🗓️
Benefits:
- Durability: Durable calendars last longer and can withstand frequent use.
- Functionality: Easy to use and organize with sections for notes, reminders, and important dates.
- Versatility: Can be used for various purposes, from tracking student progress to planning upcoming lessons.
- Value for Money: Affordable and available in a variety of sizes and styles. 💰
Drawbacks:
- Functionality: May not be as detailed or customizable as electronic calendars.
👉 Shop Calendars on: | Amazon | Walmart | Official Website
Paper Clips
Rating Table
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Durability | 8 |
| Functionality | 8 |
| Versatility | 9 |
