12 Things Teachers Need for Back to School

It’s back to school season! As a high school teacher, I find that there’s a love-hate relationship with this time of year. I’m excited, but also soaking up these last moments of summer! But I have my go-to list of supplies that I need before heading back to the classroom. Some are one time purchases, and others need refilled every year (and during the year, let’s be honest). But once I get these things, I’m ready to teach – other than the planning and decorating and organizing, of course 😉

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1. Pencils

I always buy tons of pencils to start the year off. It’s one of those things that I will always supply to students that need them and there’s no shame in it! I love these pre-sharpened ones, as it’s one less task to worry about!

2. Lined paper

Another supply that I’m a-okay with providing for students is lined paper! If a student can’t get their work done because they need a pencil or paper, they aren’t getting to learn. It’s such an easy fix to just give to them. I prefer college ruled and a big pack of it too!

3. Whiteboard markers

I love my whiteboard. I love writing on it and having all the colors of the rainbow. But always, always, always get a big box of black markers, cause those go quick! I personally love Expo markers, but I’ve also seen a lot of recommendations for the Crayola brand!

4. Pens

Okay – first I have to ask: Team Inkjoy or Team Flair? I’ll be honest, I have both, but Inkjoy has my heart <3 Just so smooth and colorful! But Flair is nice to have around!

5. To-go coffee mug

A travel mug is so nice to have as they are also usually insulated! So find one that you love and then get two more to always have a clean one on hand!

6. Magnetic borders

I absolutely love my magnetic borders for my weekly agenda! Rather than drawing lines or putting tape up on my board, it’s so easy to just slap them on the board! Plus you can get them in so many cute patterns and colors!

7. Over the door shoe organizer

This has been a lifesaver in my classroom! For what? Student supplies! Scissors, rulers, highlighters, full packs of coloring supplies all fit in the pockets of my over the door organizer. Plus you can hang it on a cabinet door or on the wall so you have more floor space!

8. Mini cart

I love a mini cart in a classroom. You can use it for storage for yourself, holding other student supplies, or how I use it, holding my extra books in my classroom library that don’t fit on the shelf!

9. Snacks

I’ll be honest – I’m that teacher who is always snacking while I teach. So these snacks are for me. BUT I have found that students can function better with snacks and tend to trust you more when you give them food. To be honest, food is my secret classroom management tool. 

10. Clipboard

Having a good solid clipboard (or two or three) is always good to have on hand. I use one for taking attendance, have one in my emergency evacuation bag to take attendance, and another for any other information that I want to be able to grab quickly. Plus my students love having their own to use at times too. 

11. Magnetic cup

I absolutely love the magnetic locker cup I got to hold my whiteboard markers. It is such a lifesaver to have them in one spot and hold them upside down so they don’t dry out!

12. Stamps, Ink, and Stickers

I know that elementary teachers probably know this already, but as a high school teacher, I didn’t use these at first. Now, I use them ALL the time. High schoolers love stickers and getting stamps on their work! 

What’s a supply that you feel you have to have for back to school? Share in the comments!