How to Find the Best School Supplies for Teachers

Stock up for less

If there’s one thing students know how to do, it’s lose their pencils. Most teachers can’t afford to hand them a brand-new replacement every time. Teachers already spend an average of $820 out of pocket each year, and back-to-school sales can only save them so much money.

That’s why, when it comes to finding school supplies for teachers, it’s important to be resourceful, think a bit outside the box and zero in on those low prices. From crowdfunding to creative shopping, here are some ways you can stock up for less.

How to find affordable school supplies for teachers 

Find the right retailer

The first place to look for cheap teacher supplies is retailers. That doesn’t mean just any retail store, however; you’re looking for one that has the best combination of reasonable prices and reliable quality. You can often find folders, binders and other foundational supplies at affordable prices, and you may even get perks like free shipping or speedy same-day delivery.

If you browse with an open mind, you may even find items that inspire creative lessons. Dice, baskets, puzzles and more can spark your imagination, giving you an affordable way to lead engaging in-class activities.

 
You might be tempted to check out the local dollar stores, but that strategy has its drawbacks. Items you buy there may not last very long, and if you arrive too late, you may find all the cheap back-to-school supplies already claimed. To set yourself up for success, start planning early in the off-season, think creatively about what’s available and only buy the supplies you’re sure you’ll use.

Another temptation is just to head straight to whatever retailer has teacher appreciation discounts, but do your homework. Just because it’s marked down doesn’t mean it’s actually the lowest price you can get. Compare prices at a variety of stores, and don’t forget to factor in things like shipping costs. Make sure you’re really getting the lowest price.

Buy in bulk

We often think about saving money when thinking about teacher supplies, but it’s important to remember that your time has value too. Buying supplies in bulk gives you an opportunity to stock up all at once and save time in the future. Some retailers offer reduced per-unit rates on larger lots because they represent guaranteed revenue. If you’re willing to buy an enormous number of pencils all at once, for example, you may pay less per pencil.

You may be able to fit a few large packs of cheap classroom supplies into your budget, but you can push your advantage even further with a little cooperation. If you pool your funds with other teachers at your school, you can make even larger purchases. When you do, you’ll bring the per-unit price down even lower, helping to ensure you and your coworkers get everything you need for less.

Some schools can help to facilitate bulk buys by leveraging their size in negotiations. In fact, many have already worked out deals to help teachers get cheap back-to-school supplies. Talk to your administrators to find out what support they can offer.

Peruse clearance sales

Some retailers and teacher supply stores maintain clearance sections. Restricting your shopping to these sections will make it hard to find everything you need, but what you do find will come at a much-reduced price. That makes clearance sections an effective way to get long-lasting teacher supplies.

Similarly, teacher supply stores sometimes offer rewards programs. Opting into these programs often gives you a chance to earn free items or other benefits, maximizing the value of your spending.

How to get free teacher supplies

Join your local regifting group

Thousands of neighborhoods across the country have started online groups to share items they no longer need. In these communities, locals post items they’re getting rid of, and their neighbors can get in touch if they’re willing to take the items. No money changes hands; these groups operate solely on giving or trading. That makes them a great way to get free teacher supplies and to meet other people in your community.

Regifting groups often have a surprising breadth of items available, from picture books to furniture. Some regifting groups even allow members to post requests. If you make a request, be sure to include that you’re a teacher looking for supplies that will help your students. That may make group members more likely to respond.

To find your local regifting community, browse social media for groups named for your neighborhood and request access.

Start a fundraiser or wishlist

Teachers frequently turn to fundraising and donations to pay for all the supplies they need. Here you have two options: a fundraiser or a public wishlist.

There are plenty of ways to raise money for the school year. Time-tested tactics such as bake sales and other charity events can be effective, but demand a lot of work. Alternatively, consider using a fundraising platform. These sites make it easy to centralize and streamline the fundraising process. They also give you a chance to share your story.

If you want people to donate specific items, a public wishlist may be the most direct option. You can make one yourself with a spreadsheet or other public document, but online platforms can also help you build the list and connect it to people willing to donate. These platforms offer the advantage of automatically tracking donations and expanding the reach of your wishlist.

Whichever option you choose, publicize your efforts as much as possible. The more people see your fundraiser or wishlist, the more likely you are to get what you need.

Save on supplies with Walmart Business

For a simple way to save on teacher supplies, consider Walmart Business. With a free account, you can browse dry-erase markers, classroom decorations and plenty more—and orders over $35 ship for free.¹

Already have an account? Upgrade to a Walmart Business+ membership to earn 2% back in Walmart Business Rewards on orders over $250.² Combine that with free delivery from local stores on orders over $35³ and you could save over $500 a year.⁴ Click here to learn more.

¹ Excludes most Marketplace items, freight and certain location surcharges.

² Rewards can only be used toward future purchases on Walmart Business. Additional terms apply. 

³ Restrictions apply.

⁴ Savings based on 1 free $35+ delivery order vs. $9.95 fee and 1 free shipping order under $35 vs. $6.99 fee biweekly, plus 2% Walmart Business Rewards on monthly order >$250 (average value of $400).