When a new school year approaches, students and teachers start gearing up to head back to the classroom as early as July. Families with children in grades K-12 can plan to spend an average of $875 on back-to-school shopping, with about $142 dedicated to school supplies alone (National Retail Federation). 

While shopping for a new backpack to fill with fresh school supplies might seem like just gathering pencils, notebooks, and folders, these “simple” items represent so much more. They symbolize class preparedness, interest in learning, equality, opportunity, and confidence.

A well-stocked backpack ensures a student arrives at school ready to focus on the day’s lessons. With all the necessary supplies in hand at the beginning of the year, they’re prepared to tackle assignments, participate in activities, and fully engage in the learning process.

Not all families in our community can afford to purchase everything their child needs throughout the school year, but when every student has access to the same essential learning materials in the classroom, it helps level the playing field.

No child should feel left out or discouraged because they lack school supplies. A teacher’s classroom equipped with educational resources is a powerful equalizer.

Having a set of markers readily available can inspire creativity, while a notebook can become a canvas for a young writer’s imagination. This interest in learning drives students to explore new ideas, ask questions, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Education can open doors to many different opportunities. A backpack becomes a gateway to that potential when students have supplies to call their own in the classroom and at home. It’s not just about physical supplies; it’s about empowering children with the confidence and security to believe in themselves.

This confidence translates into a more positive attitude towards school and their ability to succeed. When a student has the right tools, they are more likely to thrive academically, pursue higher education, enter the workforce, and become a leader in our community.

The foundation of these opportunities often begins with a simple backpack.

As the first weeks of school begin to settle and our Ready for Back-to-School campaign comes to a close, we’re reminded of the incredible power a backpack and school supplies can hold. But our work is not done yet.

For 25 years, A Gift for Teaching has provided free educational resources that empower educators and inspire future leaders – not only to get ready for back-to-school but throughout the entire school year.

Join us in celebrating the bright beginnings of a new school year with a special monthly giving opportunity now through September to make a difference for the entire year, beyond the back-to-school season! 

Matching funders will double your commitment of a recurring $25 monthly gift so that six classrooms can have access to essential supplies that empower teachers and inspire future leaders for a year. 

Become a Classroom Hero today – because what’s in a backpack can make all the difference.