Lists for teachers

Every teacher is familiar with the basics like pens, paper, and whiteboards, but there are several less obvious supplies that can significantly enhance classroom management and student engagement. Here are some often-overlooked classroom supplies that can be very useful:

1/ Label Maker: Helps in organizing supplies, student cubbies, and classroom materials. (David Allen fans will already have one of these laying around!).

2/ Plastic Storage Bins: For organizing supplies, student materials, and keeping the classroom tidy.

3/ Flat staple remover: A thankful upgrade to the steel claw version that mangles paper. 

4/ Teacher’s Tape: No more coming in the next day to find your posters all over the floor!

5/ Pencil Dispenser (aka Straw Dispenser): Brilliance.

6/ Plants or Fake Greenery: Adds a touch of nature and creates a more welcoming and calming environment. Either larger or smaller options will do the trick! They may not be pumping oxygen into the room, but the dopamine shot to the brain when you gaze at them will compensate for that!

7/ Flexible Seating Options: Items like yoga balls, bean bags, or cushions can help create a more comfortable and adaptable learning environment. Some  favorites: Trideer Yoga Ball, Gaiam Peanut Shaped Chair, or the Stool option. 

8/ Smart Speaker: D.E.A.R. time, individual work time, mindfulness moment… fire up your smart speaker to play some calm music- or nature sounds! Or a quick brain break after a lesson or quiz? If you have a smart speaker that can play games– there is no planning needed!

9/ Wireless Presenter: Useful for moving around the classroom while controlling presentations.

10/ Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer: This can be used to store a variety of classroom items in an easily accessible manner. (Think “smartphone storage” to keep your classroom phone-free!)

11/ In/Out Whiteboard: This one might take some crafting on your part (since your students won’t need the “will return at” columns), but if you want a quick touchpoint/check-in for the beginning of class or morning meeting, students can mark themselves “in” and answer a quick prompt in the “Note” section.

12/ Portable Laminator: Preserve teaching materials and student work. And avoid awkward work-room conversations while waiting for the industrial laminator!