What supplies have you bought for your classroom that you would consider a must-have for new teachers? Allison
I think it depends on what you are teaching, what grade, subject, etc, where, and what you'll find in the classroom already. I have gone into a classroom where the retiring teacher didn't even bother to order the basics: paper, pencils, chalk, etc. So there is the basis of my point. If you're replacing a teacher who left the room with the basics, then your needs would be different. Basics I require: * notebook paper * stapler & staples * paper clips (all sizes, including binder clips) * sticky notes * scotch tape * clear packing tape * sharpie markers, pens, pencils * student pencils * glue * scissors (student & teacher) * crayons, colored pencils, markers * chalk (if you have a chalkboard) * flash drive * manila file folders * e-z grader * envelopes (all sizes: standard, legal, document) I consider those needed items. I'd like to think most places would have those available in the room already. But reality is often the contrary. I then consider other things *nice but not necessary*: construction paper, craft items, classroom library, paint & supplies, ziploc bags, popsicle sticks, clothespins, drawing paper, etc.
You're right, it totally depends on what you are teaching. I've taught K and 3rd, and one thing I couldn't never live without are storage tubs. Baskets, bins, etc. You can always find a use for those!
I found this year I couldn't have lived without at least 10 clipboards (they are 99 cents each at Walmart, I ended up getting one for each kid in my class) as well as a timer. And hand sanitizer!
Including everything above, I also can't live without a timer and a bell (or some other attention getting noisemaker).
I don't have my own classroom yet, but if you are going to have book baskets in your room, they have some colorful ones with handles at the dollar tree...cheap and fun!
Mailbox unit Personal items to decorate my room-picture frames for pics. of my family, etc. baskets, bins, tubs books for re-alouds Big comfy desk chair
Emonkey...right on! You can never have enough bins or containers to store supplies and paperwork. I think most of the basics have been covered. I have to say that I absolutely love my sharpies! I'm big on labeling so they are a neccessity for me. I also keep spiral notebooks or notepads handy for when a good idea for future lesson plans or random ideas hit me.
A timer and white boards. I put expo markers on the supply list so we have enough to last throughout the year.
