Class Donations

We all know Dollar Tree is a teacher's best friend.  But when shopping at the Dollar Tree supplying a classroom can still be expensive!  The program I teach in went from unlimited ordering to $300.00 a classroom (tax and shipping comes out of that)!

With expenses being so high it's time to BEG!  There are several ways to go about this.  You can always try grants.  I have had 3 Donors Choose projects funded.  This is good for bigger items or items from a teacher supply store. Last year I got 3 personal CD players for my listening center.  The kids love these!  You can start the process at www.donorschoose.org.  I have also received Pets in the classroom grants the past 4 years and intend to apply again this year.  There are several options on their website.  The first year is a larger amount to get you started and get your pet all set up. Following years you can apply for sustaining grants to replenish supplies and replace pets if needed. Applications are available at  http://www.petsintheclassroom.org/.  These are just a few there are many more including some offered by local community organizations.

Another option for small items, like construction paper, class treats, glue sticks, etc is to ask parents.  I have done this several ways. One simple way is to send home a wish list.   I have also had a Giving Tree where I wrote the requested items on leaves.  The parents take a leaf and return the item. I have a wish list on the class webpage and also one at Classrooms by Walmart.  This is a new program where you can create lists for parents to view and purchase items.  You can find this at https://classrooms.walmart.com, This year I plan to ask parents to lend a "Helping Hand".  I will have  hands with the requested items for them to take at Open House and Back to School Night.  I created a pack for sale at TpT store with hands and Thank you note to thank parents for donating.  You can view this at http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Donation-and-Thank-you-Pack-792737.

However you choose to supply your classroom, I hope you get lots of goodies!