It’s Back to School time for kids of all ages, and it’s also time to start spending on school supplies, clothing, and so many other needs and wants for your student. How can you navigate between what you really need to buy, what you can put off, and what you can skip all together? Information and planning are key.
Try to get ahead on items that you know are needed. Information from school websites might help you to buy clothing and supplies. Take time to go over the dress code with your student, and shop accordingly. It would be a good idea to spend less on the first shop, and budget some cash for a second round of shopping a few weeks later to fill in forgotten or “must have” items. School lunches may also be another area to split payments, maybe make a partial deposit into a student’s account, and then wait to see if the student prefers to take a lunch. Older students tastes can change, and bringing a lunch may become the best option.
In the first few weeks of school you will be inundated with opportunities to spend. You don’t have to buy everything right away! Some items are required, such as specific classroom materials that teachers want the students to have, and PE uniforms. As much as you want to buy school supplies early, waiting to get a list from the teacher will keep you from overspending. If a teacher sends home a syllabus, read it carefully, needed materials might be listed. Also, ask students to make a shopping list throughout the first week of school, keeping in mind that schedules sometimes change.
Giving a few dollars to the PTO at the beginning of the year is a good idea. The PTO uses funds to buy student awards, and to support teachers with materials that are not provided by the district. PTO volunteers do volunteer their time to assist both students and teachers, showing your support with even a $5 or $10 dollar donation means a lot.
High School seniors have many opportunities to spend money throughout the year. It is good to buy the yearbook, and cap and gown at the beginning of the year, as these items are sometimes marked up as the year progresses. There are also senior packages that include all trips and most school events. If your student isn’t sure that they want to attend all events, the items can be purchased individually. However, these events do sell out. Do sign up and pay as soon as you know that you want to go on a particular trip.
The bottom line is to be flexible if you want to save money. Make partial payments when you can and don’t spend until you know what is really needed. Don’t hesitate to call your student’s school for more information or email teachers whenever you have a question. They are available to help!
