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🍎 Classroom Supplies for Teachers: What to Find at Thrift Shops
Teachers spend a lot on their classrooms. Thrift shops are one of the best ways to stretch a supply budget, and August is the ideal time to go.
Books and games
Picture books, chapter books and reference books are plentiful, and a classroom library can grow quickly. Board games, puzzles and flash cards are great for centers, but check that the pieces are all there. Count them before you buy.
Storage and furniture
- Baskets, bins and crates for supplies.
- Bookshelves and small tables.
- Rugs for a reading corner.
- Lamps for softer light.
Decor and themes
Frames, maps, globes and plants brighten a room. A secondhand globe or map is also a good teaching tool.
Things to check
Look over everything for sharp edges, loose parts and anything that does not meet your school’s safety rules. Check with your school before bringing in upholstered items or electrical gear.
Save your receipts
Teachers can often deduct some classroom expenses. Keep your receipts and check current tax rules or ask a tax professional about what qualifies.
Thrift tip: Mention that you are a teacher. Some shops offer discounts or help you find what you need.
Plan a back-to-school loop on the Trail and fill the classroom for less.
Plan a route through Chattanooga area thrift stores, vintage shops and antique malls, ordered around their hours.
Plan My Thrift Route →
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