Care Closets have become lifelines for many students, especially in underserved communities. These distinct spaces, maintained by teachers and school staff, are stocked with academic supplies and personal care items to help students thrive, regardless of their circumstances. Care closets offer everything from pencils and notebooks to hygiene products, winter clothing, and even non-perishable snacks — essentials many students may lack at home.
Despite facing low pay and rising inflation, U.S. teachers spend between $500 and $750 each year on school supplies for their students, according to the National Association of Education. This same resource notes that the average public school teacher in America makes just under $70,000, yet a significant portion of their hard-earned income goes toward supporting students and establishing Care Closets. One U.S. Department of Education study found that 94 percent of teachers use their own money to purchase classroom necessities. Other school professionals — bus drivers, front office staff, classroom aides, and custodians — also contribute by spending their wages on student supplies.
Teachers across America typically stock their Care Closets at the start of the academic year. Yet, midway between semesters, they find their inventory significantly depleted. When students head back to the second half of the school year after the December holiday break, it’s important to support teachers in restocking their Care Closets with key essentials to make the school year as successful as possible.
The Second Back-to-School Season
When we think about the back-to-school season, we often picture the late summer rush of shopping for backpacks, notebooks, and pencils as kids prepare for a new school year. However, savvy educators and parents know that a second back-to-school season begins after the December holiday break. This lesser-known season is a crucial time when classrooms and supplies need refreshing, students return with new needs, and teachers strive to create a nurturing environment as they kick off the spring semester. This includes replenishing their Care Closets with essential items.
As winter arrives, the demand for resources increases, particularly for warm clothing like gloves, hats, and coats. By January, classrooms have been in use for five months, causing pencils to break, notebooks to fill up, and glue to run dry. Teachers’ tight budgets are often stretched thin, and some students may face new challenges upon returning to school. For example, some families might experience financial strain after the holidays, making it difficult for parents to provide necessary items for their children.
The increased demands on Care Closets and teachers contribute to a higher risk of burnout among educators. According to Psychology Today, teaching roles are now more susceptible to burnout than ever. The main factors include a lack of support, student discipline issues, and insufficient resources to facilitate student learning. Additionally, compassion fatigue is a significant concern, especially in underserved schools, with 73% of teachers reporting job-related stress, according to NEA Today.
How You Can Help Schools and Teachers in the New Year
Every day, teachers play a vital role in educating our nation’s youth. It’s time we step up to support their efforts to help students. Here are some tips to help teachers restock their Care Closets for the second back-to-school season:
- Ask Teachers What They Need: Every classroom has unique needs. Reach out to teachers or school administrators directly to learn what items would be most helpful.
- Donate Bulk Supplies: Items like pencils, paper, markers, tissues, and disinfectant wipes are always in high demand. Healthy snacks or prepared meals are also greatly appreciated. Donating in bulk ensures classrooms are well-stocked without straining your budget.
- Provide Personal Care Essentials: Hygiene items such as shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, and feminine products are crucial for students’ confidence and well-being, yet these items are often overlooked.
- Sponsor a Teacher or Classroom: Consider partnering with your local school to “adopt” a classroom by providing a steady stream of supplies. Build a close relationship with the teacher so they can reach out to you when items are needed.
- Deliver Peace of Mind for the Holidays: Before students head off for winter break, reach out to a teacher to discuss how you can support them. You could even consider delivering the goods before the holiday vacation. Knowing their classroom needs are covered can allow teachers to enjoy a stress-free holiday season.
- Spread the Word and Encourage Involvement: Share the idea of Care Closets and their impact during the second back-to-school season with your community — family, colleagues, neighbors, and friends. This innovative approach to community support directly benefits children and is rewarding to participate in. Raising awareness will help drive involvement and participation.
At DollarDays, we’re committed to supporting those who dedicate their lives to shaping young minds. By recognizing the importance of the second back-to-school season and helping to stock Care Closets, we can all contribute to ensuring that every child starts the new year with the essentials they need to thrive.
Our diverse range of products includes everything from bulk school supplies like pencils, paper, and notebooks to personal care items like shampoo, deodorant, and toothpaste. These resources are vital for creating a nurturing environment where students can focus on learning and growth.
We invite you to join us in empowering teachers and supporting students. Your contributions, whether donating bulk supplies or sponsoring a classroom, make a significant impact. Visit our website to explore our selection of products and see how you can help make a difference in your local schools today.
Let’s come together to support those who serve others — one Care Closet at a time — to help create a brighter future for our children.