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As school supply shopping season begins, remember that organization and simplicity are the keys to middle school success.
- A zipper binder with a 3-hole supply bag, and pocket dividers or 3-hole folder for each class can keep all necessary materials in one place for all classes without risking an explosion of school supplies all over the hallway or stairwell. They also prevent students from having to go to their locker between classes. Since students are not allowed to carry backpacks, bags, or purses, they can keep all necessary items inside the zipper binder such as a library book, supply bag, snack, inhalers, lip balm, or feminine hygiene items. Prices of zipper binders vary, but usually start in the $10-$15 range. Alternatively, students can use a 2 1/2" - 3" binder or an accordion file and achieve most of the same organizational benefits. *Some classes such as Band and Orchestra may require a separate binder, but a single storage device will definitely be a great tool for your student and for you.
- Keeping the binder light-weight and slim is important, so DO NOT OVERLOAD THE SUPPLY BAG. Your student only needs a few pencils and just 1 of everything else. Likewise, your student only needs to put 1/2 to 1/3 of a package of notebook paper at the back of the binder. Left over school supplies should be kept in a large school box in your student's locker or at home. Avoid purchasing the 24 pack of colored pencils or any markers - they just make the binder bulky.
- An agenda, calendar, or assignment notebook is essential for keeping track of assignments and due dates. Choose one that is slim and has 3 holes to easily fit in the binder. Students tend to write less in the small agendas, which can lead to confusion and arguments at home. The Clint Small Agenda is a good example of the ideal size and can be purchased in the school store for $5 (last year's price).
- Many classes require a composition book, so it is probably a safe bet to purchase about 3 or 4 of these. Some classes may require additional supplies, but your student can wait until their teachers let them know. If you are out of school supply money by that time, students can always come by my classroom for whatever they need, free of charge throughout the entire school year, no questions asked.
- Kleenex, zip-lock bags, disinfectant wipes, and hand sanitizer, can be delivered to your student's TRACK teacher. While the teachers greatly appreciate these items, these are also items that can be left off the shopping list if you are needing to limit your spending. Buying school supplies for more than one child can add up very quickly and we definitely understand the financial strain this can bring coupled with all of the other beginning of the year expenses.