What Supplies Should Teachers Order? 50+ Essentials for 2025 🎒

silver laptop computer on table

Picture this: It’s the night before school starts, and you’re surrounded by a mountain of supplies—some you ordered months ago, some you grabbed last minute. But wait… did you forget something crucial? 🤔 We’ve all been there, scrambling to find that one elusive item that would have made the day run smoother. What if you had a foolproof list, curated by veteran educators and supply experts, that covers every essential and then some?

In this ultimate guide, we unveil 50+ must-have teacher supplies for 2025—from timeless classics like Ticonderoga pencils to cutting-edge tech tools that will transform your classroom. Plus, we’ll share insider tips on budgeting, organization, and even eco-friendly options to keep your classroom green and efficient. Ready to master your supply order and create a classroom that inspires? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • Start with the essentials: pens, pencils, paper, folders, and scissors form the backbone of your classroom.
  • Organization is your secret weapon: storage bins, planners, and labels keep chaos at bay and save time.
  • Incorporate tech and creativity: digital tools and art supplies boost engagement and cater to diverse learners.
  • Prioritize health and safety: stock up on sanitizers, wipes, and masks to protect your classroom community.
  • 👉 Shop smart and sustainably: leverage teacher discounts, bulk buys, and eco-friendly products to stretch your budget and reduce waste.

Ready to shop? Check out these top-rated categories to get started:

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts for Teacher Supply Shopping

Teacher Supply Shopping: A Quick Guide

You’re about to embark on a journey to create the perfect classroom haven! 📚 But before you dive into the world of colorful folders and sparkly pens, let’s equip you with some essential tips and facts:

1. Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute! The best deals and the widest selection are often found in the weeks leading up to the start of school. 🗓️

2. Make a List: Think about your classroom needs, grade level, and subject. A well-organized list will keep you on track and prevent impulse buys. đź“ť

3. Budget Wisely: Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Remember, you can always find creative ways to get the supplies you need without breaking the bank. đź’°

4. Explore Discounts: Look for teacher discounts at stores like Target, Walmart, and Amazon. Many retailers offer special deals for educators. 🤑

5. Don’t Forget the Essentials: Always include basic supplies like pens, pencils, paper, folders, and scissors on your list. These are the building blocks of any classroom. ✏️

6. Think Beyond the Basics: Consider adding some fun and engaging items to your list, like art supplies, games, and educational toys. These can make learning more enjoyable for your students. 🎨

7. Get Creative: Don’t be afraid to think outside the box! You can often find unique and affordable supplies at thrift stores, garage sales, and even online marketplaces. ♻️

8. Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask fellow teachers for recommendations or to borrow supplies. The teaching community is a supportive one! 🤝

9. Be Prepared for the Unexpected: Always have a backup plan in case you run out of supplies or something breaks. It’s better to be safe than sorry! 💪

10. Enjoy the Process: Teacher supply shopping can be a fun and rewarding experience! Take your time, browse different stores, and find the perfect items for your classroom. 🎉

Fun Fact: Did you know that teachers spend an average of $750 of their own money on classroom supplies each year? 🤯 That’s why it’s so important to shop smart and find the best deals!

Ready to start shopping? Let’s dive into the world of classroom supplies and discover the must-have items for your classroom! ➡️

📚 The Evolution of Classroom Supplies: A Teacher’s Tale


Video: Classroom Supplies Haul! 1st Year Teacher 2020 (for when we return to the classroom).








A Blast from the Past: Remember those days of chalkboards, mimeograph machines, and bulky textbooks? Those were the days! đź‘´ But times have changed, and so have classroom supplies.

The Digital Revolution: The advent of computers, interactive whiteboards, and online learning platforms has transformed the way we teach and learn. đź’» Gone are the days of dusty textbooks and handwritten notes.

The Rise of Creativity: Today’s classrooms are filled with colorful supplies, engaging games, and creative learning tools. 🎨 Teachers are encouraged to make learning fun and interactive, and there’s a vast array of supplies to help them do just that.

The Importance of Sustainability: As educators, we’re increasingly aware of the environmental impact of our choices. That’s why sustainable and eco-friendly supplies are becoming more popular. ♻️ From recycled paper to reusable containers, there are many ways to create a greener classroom.

The Future of Classroom Supplies: What does the future hold? We can expect to see even more innovative and tech-driven supplies that enhance learning and engagement. 🚀 Who knows, maybe we’ll even have holographic classrooms one day!

But no matter how classroom supplies evolve, one thing remains constant: The power of a teacher to inspire and empower their students. ✨

Ready to explore the latest and greatest classroom supplies? Let’s dive into the must-have items for your classroom! ➡️

1. Essential Classroom Supplies Every Teacher Should Order


Video: My ALL TIME Classroom Organization FAVORITES | Top 10 List for Teachers.








The Foundation of Your Classroom: These essential supplies are the backbone of any classroom, providing the tools your students need to learn and grow.

1.1 Writing and Paper Supplies

Table 1: Writing and Paper Supplies Rating

Feature Rating (1-10)
Quality 8
Durability 7
Value for Money 9
Variety of Options 10

Pens: Bic Cristal Pens are a classic for a reason! They’re reliable, affordable, and come in a variety of colors. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Bic Official Website

Pencils: Ticonderoga Pencils are known for their smooth writing and long-lasting lead. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Dixon Ticonderoga Official Website

Erasers: Pink Pearl Erasers are a staple in classrooms. They’re effective, affordable, and come in a variety of sizes. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Dixon Ticonderoga Official Website

Highlighters: Sharpie Highlighters are a must-have for highlighting important information. They come in a variety of colors and are known for their vibrant colors and long-lasting ink. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Sharpie Official Website

Paper: Copy Paper is essential for printing worksheets, handouts, and other classroom materials. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Construction Paper: Construction Paper is great for art projects, decorations, and creating colorful displays. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Crayola Official Website

Folders: Folders are essential for organizing student work, handouts, and other classroom materials. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Notebooks: Composition Notebooks are a classic choice for student writing and note-taking. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Mead Official Website

Index Cards: Index Cards are versatile for a variety of classroom activities, from vocabulary flashcards to note-taking. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | 3M Official Website

1.2 Organization and Storage Supplies

Table 2: Organization and Storage Supplies Rating

Feature Rating (1-10)
Durability 9
Functionality 8
Value for Money 7
Variety of Options 10

Storage Bins: Sterilite Storage Bins are a great way to organize classroom materials. They come in a variety of sizes and are stackable for efficient storage. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Sterilite Official Website

Shelves: Adjustable Shelves are a versatile solution for organizing books, supplies, and other classroom materials. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | IKEA Official Website

Tubs: Plastic Storage Tubs are great for storing larger items like art supplies, games, and manipulatives. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Rubbermaid Official Website

File Folders: File Folders are essential for organizing student work, handouts, and other classroom materials. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Binders: Binders are great for organizing student work, handouts, and other classroom materials. They come in a variety of sizes and styles. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Labels: Avery Labels are a great way to label storage bins, shelves, and other classroom materials. They come in a variety of sizes and styles. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Avery Official Website

1.3 Classroom Management Supplies

Table 3: Classroom Management Supplies Rating

Feature Rating (1-10)
Durability 8
Functionality 9
Value for Money 8
Variety of Options 10

Timers: Time Timer is a visual timer that helps students understand how much time is left for an activity. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Time Timer Official Website

Whiteboards: Dry Erase Whiteboards are essential for classroom instruction, brainstorming, and group activities. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Dry Erase Markers: Expo Dry Erase Markers are a must-have for use with whiteboards. They come in a variety of colors and are known for their vibrant colors and long-lasting ink. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Expo Official Website

Bulletin Boards: Bulletin Boards are a great way to display student work, announcements, and other important information. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Sticky Notes: Post-it Notes are versatile for a variety of classroom uses, from reminders to brainstorming sessions. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Post-it Official Website

Staplers: Staplers are essential for securing papers, handouts, and other classroom materials. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Scissors: Scissors are essential for cutting paper, construction paper, and other classroom materials. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Tape: Scotch Tape is a must-have for securing papers, posters, and other classroom materials. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Scotch Official Website

Glue Sticks: Elmer’s Glue Sticks are a great choice for classroom projects. They’re easy to use, non-toxic, and come in a variety of sizes. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Elmer’s Official Website

Pencil Sharpeners: Electric Pencil Sharpeners are a time-saver for sharpening pencils. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Rulers: Rulers are essential for measuring and drawing. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Protractors: Protractors are essential for measuring angles. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Compasses: Compasses are essential for drawing circles and arcs. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Office Depot Official Website

Crayons: Crayola Crayons are a classic choice for art projects and coloring. They come in a variety of colors and are known for their vibrant colors and smooth application. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Crayola Official Website

Markers: Crayola Markers are a great choice for art projects and coloring. They come in a variety of colors and are known for their vibrant colors and long-lasting ink. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Crayola Official Website

Colored Pencils: Crayola Colored Pencils are a great choice for art projects and coloring. They come in a variety of colors and are known for their vibrant colors and smooth application. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Crayola Official Website

Paint: Crayola Paints are a great choice for art projects. They come in a variety of colors and are known for their vibrant colors and easy application. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Crayola Official Website

Art Supplies: Art Supplies are essential for creative expression and learning. They can include a variety of items, such as paintbrushes, easels, clay, scissors, and construction paper. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Michaels Official Website

Games: Games are a fun and engaging way to learn. They can include a variety of items, such as board games, card games, and puzzles. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Target Official Website

Educational Toys: Educational Toys are a great way to promote learning through play. They can include a variety of items, such as building blocks, manipulatives, and science kits. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Target Official Website

Classroom Decor: Classroom Decor can help create a welcoming and stimulating learning environment. It can include a variety of items, such as posters, wall art, rugs, and plants. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Target Official Website

Teacher Supplies: Teacher Supplies are essential for planning and organizing lessons. They can include a variety of items, such as lesson planners, grade books, stamps, and stickers. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Teacher Supply Store™ Official Website

Remember: This is just a starting point. You can customize your supply list based on your grade level, subject, and classroom needs.

Ready to explore more must-have classroom supplies? Let’s dive into the world of organizational tools that will keep your classroom running smoothly! ➡️

2. Must-Have Organizational Tools to Keep Your Classroom on Track


Video: Get Your Classroom Organized with These Tips!








Organization is Key: A well-organized classroom is a happy classroom! These organizational tools will help you keep your classroom running smoothly and efficiently.

2.1 Classroom Management Tools

Table 4: Classroom Management Tools Rating

Feature Rating (1-10)
Durability 9
Functionality 9
Value for Money 8
Variety of Options 10

Lesson Planners: Erin Condren Lesson Planners are a popular choice for teachers. They’re colorful, customizable, and offer a variety of layouts to suit different teaching styles. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Erin Condren Official Website

Grade Books: Teacher Created Resources Grade Books are a great way to keep track of student grades. They come in a variety of formats, including traditional paper grade books and digital grade books. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Teacher Created Resources Official Website

Classroom Management Charts: Classroom Management Charts are a visual way to track student behavior. They can help you identify patterns and address issues proactively. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Teacher Supply Store™ Official Website

Pocket Charts: Pocket Charts are a versatile tool for organizing and displaying information. They can be used for a variety of activities, such as word walls, phonics charts, and math manipulatives. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Teacher Supply Store™ Official Website

Classroom Rules Posters: Classroom Rules Posters are a great way to set expectations for student behavior. They can help create a positive and productive learning environment. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Teacher Supply Store™ Official Website

Behavior Clip Charts: Behavior Clip Charts are a visual way to track student behavior. They can help you identify patterns and address issues proactively. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Teacher Supply Store™ Official Website

Classroom Seating Charts: Classroom Seating Charts are a great way to organize your classroom and keep track of student seating arrangements. They can help you create a positive and productive learning environment. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Teacher Supply Store™ Official Website

Classroom Schedules: Classroom Schedules are a great way to keep students on track and informed about the daily routine. They can help create a sense of structure and predictability in the classroom. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Teacher Supply Store™ Official Website

Classroom Jobs Charts: Classroom Jobs Charts are a great way to assign students responsibilities and promote a sense of ownership in the classroom. They can help create a positive and productive learning environment. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Teacher Supply Store™ Official Website

2.2 Storage and Organization Tools

Table 5: Storage and Organization Tools Rating

Feature Rating (1-10)
Durability 9
Functionality 9
Value for Money 8
Variety of Options 10

Storage Bins: Sterilite Storage Bins are a great way to organize classroom materials. They come in a variety of sizes and are stackable for efficient storage. 👉 CHECK PRICE on: [Amazon](https://www.amazon.

🎯 Conclusion: Master Your Teacher Supply Order Like a Pro

white Apple Magic Mouse beside of Magic Keyboard and headphones

Wow, what a whirlwind tour through the world of teacher supplies! From the trusty Ticonderoga pencils to the game-changing Time Timer, you’re now armed with everything you need to build a classroom that’s organized, engaging, and inspiring. Remember, the right supplies don’t just fill shelves—they fuel learning and creativity.

Here’s the bottom line:
✅ Essentials like pens, paper, and folders are non-negotiable — these form the backbone of your daily teaching.
âś… Organizational tools like storage bins and planners keep chaos at bay and save you precious time.
âś… Creative and tech supplies bring lessons to life and keep students excited to learn.
✅ Health and safety items protect your classroom community — especially important in today’s world.
âś… Budget-friendly and sustainable options help you shop smart and green without sacrificing quality.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, just remember: start with the essentials, then layer in extras based on your unique classroom needs and teaching style. And don’t forget to tap into teacher communities and resources like Teacher Supply Store™ for recommendations and deals.

So, go ahead—embrace the joy of supply shopping! Your future students will thank you, and you’ll thank yourself for being so prepared. 🎉

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

Books for Teachers:

  • The First Days of School by Harry K. Wong & Rosemary T. Wong — Amazon
  • Teach Like a Champion by Doug Lemov — Amazon
  • The Organized Teacher by Steve Springer & Brandy Alexander — Amazon

âť“ Frequently Asked Questions About Teacher Supplies


Video: VLOGMAS DAY 4 | first year teacher must-haves, sharing classroom items I can't live without!








What are the essential classroom supplies for a new school year?

Essentials include:

  • Writing tools: pencils (Ticonderoga), pens (Bic), erasers, and highlighters (Sharpie).
  • Paper products: copy paper, notebooks, index cards, construction paper.
  • Organization: folders, binders, storage bins (Sterilite), and labels (Avery).
  • Classroom management: whiteboards, dry erase markers (Expo), timers (Time Timer), and staplers.
    These basics ensure you’re ready for daily lessons, organization, and student engagement.

How do I create a budget for classroom materials and supplies?

Start by:

  • Listing your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.
  • Estimating quantities based on class size and frequency of use.
  • Researching prices online and in-store to find average costs.
  • Allocating funds for unexpected needs or replenishments.
  • Utilizing teacher discounts, bulk buying, and apps like Fetch to maximize your budget.
    Remember, prioritize essentials and add extras as funds allow.

What are some innovative and engaging learning materials for my students?

Try:

  • Interactive whiteboards and tablets for tech-savvy lessons.
  • Manipulatives like math blocks and science kits for hands-on learning.
  • Educational games and puzzles to make learning fun.
  • Creative art supplies like watercolor paints and modeling clay to foster expression.
  • Visual timers (Time Timer) to help students manage time independently.
    These tools boost engagement and cater to diverse learning styles.

Top picks include:

  • Writing tools: Ticonderoga pencils, Bic pens, Sharpie markers.
  • Organizational tools: Sterilite bins, Erin Condren planners, Avery labels.
  • Classroom essentials: Expo dry erase markers, Elmer’s glue sticks, Post-it notes.
  • Tech accessories: Logitech webcams, headphones, and chargers.
  • Health and safety: antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, tissues.
    Ordering online offers convenience, variety, and access to reviews to help you choose the best products.

How can I make my classroom supply shopping more sustainable?

Tips:

  • Choose recycled or eco-friendly paper products.
  • Use refillable pens and markers.
  • Opt for reusable storage containers instead of disposable bags.
  • Donate or repurpose leftover supplies at the end of the year.
  • Support brands committed to sustainability, like Crayola’s eco-friendly lines.
    Sustainability reduces waste and models responsible behavior for students.

Ready to conquer your classroom supply list? Dive into Discover 15 Must-Have Oriental Trading School Supplies for Every Classroom! 🎒 for even more inspiration!

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob leads Teacher Supply Store™’s team of classroom-tested educators, shaping clear, practical guides that help teachers save time, stretch budgets, and create engaging learning spaces. He champions the site’s tech-powered research approach—synthesizing real educator feedback and hands-on testing—to keep every recommendation useful, current, and classroom-ready.

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