If you’re a first-year teacher, congratulations! Even though it has been a minute, I do remember how excited I was when I got my first teaching job. One of the things I could not wait to do was get all the things for my classroom.
A reader asked me for a list of “must-haves” for first-year teachers, so I’ve put together a big list. This does NOT mean that you need to buy anything on this list.
Many of these items may be supplied by your school or your school’s PTA. Check with them before you spend your soon-to-be hard-earned money! Another option would be to make an Amazon wish list and share it with anyone who asks what they can buy for you.
Here are supplies that many of my teacher friends use and love!
OFFICE SUPPLIES
This is my favorite brand of stapler because it’s sturdy and lasts forever. Getting a colorful stapler helps you find it quickly and also helps identify it as YOUR stapler, as opposed to a stapler that the kids can use!
This is the BEST pencil sharpener! I get one for myself and one for the students.
These are expensive, but super helpful if you make charts for your classroom.
*Pencils – you can never have enough! Ticonderoga are the best.
*Post-it notes – same as pencils!
*Flair pens (or other favorite pens)
*Astrobrights colored card stock paper
*Command strips are a must!
*Cute monogrammed clipboard from Etsy or a cute clipboard without a monogram from Amazon.
*I love the Emily Ley teacher planner.
*If you’re an Etsy lover, check out their school supplies as well. They have tons of cute and useful supplies which are also priced affordably.
ORGANIZATIONAL/INSTRUCTIONAL/CLEANING SUPPLIES
*Individual whiteboards and erasers
*Ziploc bags in variety of sizes
CLASSROOM DECOR
*Flexible seating options on Amazon
*Classroom decor options on Amazon
*Baby wipes – kids can clean tables and counters with these.
PERSONAL
*Deoderant! (never let them see you sweat)
*Hand lotion (a must because you will be washing your hands A LOT)
*Hand sanitizer (if you don’t have easy access to soap and water)
*Advil (or pain reliever of your choice)
*Classroom snacks (for you or the kids – or both!)
*Emergen-C – got to keep that immunity up!
*Tampons or other hygiene supplies
WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE . . .
*Charging station for your stuff
Veteran teachers, please comment below if you have other suggestions to offer!
New teachers, thank you for joining the most important profession in the world. We welcome you and want to support you. Please reach out to me with any questions! I’m here to help. 🙂
Thank you for compiling this comprehensive list of teacher essentials! As a veteran teacher, I can attest to the importance of having the right supplies and tools to make the classroom a more organized and effective learning space. Your suggestions cover a wide range of needs, from classroom supplies to personal items, and even some nice-to-haves. I appreciate the emphasis on practicality and the teacher’s well-being. New teachers, take note, and make sure to consider these recommendations as you prepare for the school year. And for those experienced educators, please share your additional suggestions to help support our newer colleagues. It’s all about creating the best possible environment for our students, and this list is a great resource to get started!”