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Many first-year teachers go in trying to make sure they have all the important bases covered. Lesson plans? Check. Fun week one icebreaker activities to get to know your students? Check. Supplies? It’s difficult to know exactly how to choose supplies you’ll use consistently over the many successful teaching years to come. Never fear! We’re here to help you get that first teaching year under your belt with the right tools in hand.
First-year Teacher Tips to Find Must-have Items
Before you buy any extra items for your classroom, check out what is already available to you for free. Other teachers can be very helpful with supplies they no longer use. Some schools may offer paper rolls to cover bulletin boards or a classroom laminating machine. Ask around, then take a look at your budget. The items listed below are the ones teachers have told us made their first-year teaching experience easier.
Organizational Tools
Sticky Notes
You’ve heard it before, but everyone loves sticky notes! They are the perfect combination of form and function, coming in a variety of colors and sizes. Add some sticky flags for easy, color-coded filing and page marking.
Storage Bins
We have storage bins of all sizes and colors to fit your needs. Great for storing supplies and connecting your storage solutions to your classroom’s overall theme and color scheme.
Writing Utensils
This is always a long list, but make sure you have them all! Markers, highlighters, pencils, and pens are must-haves in the classroom. Keep special sets just for yourself to use, as many of the classroom supplies will be lost or damaged throughout the busy school year.
File Folders
File folders and a filing cabinet can be a lifesaver when it comes to keeping important papers. Store your worksheets, colored printer paper, and student papers in neat file folders to keep things tidy and easily accessible. Hanging file folders can also go into file folder bins or mobile storage carts.
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Classroom Decor
Classroom Calendar
The classroom calendar is a classic part of most rooms and for good reason! First-year teachers will find it especially helpful to have a schedule laid out for all to see. Not only does it help students get a feel for the months of the year and events coming up, but it helps you keep track of important dates like student birthdays. Your calendar can be as functional or as decorative as you like!
Information Center
Keep important information like your classroom schedule, rules, procedures, and even fire drill and safety maps in one location. This will give students and substitute teachers one place to look if they have any questions. Use a pocket chart or eye-catching bulletin board trimmers to make your information center blend in with your learning space.
Book Display
A full library display in your classroom may not be a year one reality, but there are plenty of more affordable ways to display books. Feature some favorites on a smaller or mobile book display to incorporate classroom books into the decor. An open display reminds students of all their options during reading time.
Bulletin Board Decor
Bulletin boards can be made purely for decorative purposes or to give students important information. Choose what you want to be on the board, then look for some fun, decorative items to dress it up. Students are more likely to read a board that looks put together and fits a theme or coordinates with the rest of the room.
For Yourself
Don’t forget about you! Especially in those first years of teaching, practice self-care so you can be your best self. It’s important for you, and it’s important for your students! So take a few steps right at the start to make sure your desk is a healthy and positive space. Here are a few ideas to try:
A Nice Water Bottle
Teachers do a lot of walking and talking, so remind yourself to stay hydrated. Keep a nice water bottle on hand to make water consumption easier and more appealing. A drink of cold water might be just the thing you need during a midday slump.
A Favorite Mug
Some days you just need a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea. When that day arrives (if it isn’t every day), you’ll want a favorite mug nearby. Students often give teachers fun mugs as gifts, but you can also bring one in that showcases a bit of your personality.
Good Tissues and Sanitizer
School tends to be a place where germs collect, and most of us will have a cold or allergies at some point throughout a busy school year. Do yourself a favor and keep a box or pocket pack of tissues and a bottle of hand sanitizer close by. Your nose will thank you!
Desk Frames and Photos
As much as we know teachers love to teach, some days it’s nice to have a heartwarming reminder of family and friends (and pets!). You could even have some photos from fun vacations to reminisce. Start the school year in August with memories of a cold ski trip, then switch it up in December for ocean views from your beach vacation!
More Teacher Life and Must-Have Supply Lists
Looking for more ideas to make this the best year yet? Check out more Teacher Life articles for year-round inspiration, then stop by Teacher Must-Haves for supply ideas to make it happen! Our online store has thousands of great products for educators looking to add more fun to their learning space.
Do you have suggestions for first-year teachers? What should be on their must-have list? We love seeing teachers helping teachers, so share your must-have items in the comments below!
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