*Updated on 7-7-23*
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
*Stapler
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!
*Electric pencil sharpener
This is the BEST pencil sharpener! I get one for myself and one for the students.
*Cute monogrammed clipboard from Etsy or a cute clipboard without a monogram from Amazon.
*I love the Emily Ley teacher planner.
*Post-it easel pads
These are expensive, but super helpful if you make charts for your classroom.
*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.
*Dry erase tape
*Washi tape
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*Classroom wall calendar
*Velcro dots
*Pencils – you can never have enough! Ticonderoga are the best.
*Post-it notes – same as pencils!
*Expo dry erase markers
*Flair pens (or other favorite pens)
*Laminator
*Laminating pouches
*Magnets
*Paper cutter
*Astrobrights colored card stock paper
*Self-inking stamps
*E-Z grader
*Timers
*Command strips are a must!
*Binder clips
ORGANIZATIONAL/INSTRUCTIONAL/CLEANING SUPPLIES
*Plastic caddies
*Supply cart
*Dry erase pockets
*Dry erase circles for small group instruction
*Fun whiteboard erasers
*Table top whiteboard
*Ziploc bags in variety of sizes
*Glue gun
*Staple gun
CLASSROOM DECOR
*Plastic stack stools
*CLorox wipes
*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)
*Lip balm
*Breath mints
*Advil
*Lint roller
*Tide To Go
*Classroom snacks (for you or for the kids – or both!)
*Plastic cutlery
*Emergen-C
*Dental kit
*Tampons or other hygiene supplies
*Hair ties
*Hair brush
*Travel coffee mug
” rel=”noopener” target=”_blank”>Large water bottle
*Essential oils diffuser (if allowed at your school)
*Essential oils
*Cute tabletop lamp
WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE . . .
*Charging station for your stuff
*Laptop stand
*Mini fridge
*Microwave
*Keurig coffee maker
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*Echo Dot
If you don’t already have Amazon Prime, you need to sign up now! Prime Days are July 15-16 this year.
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!”