GREENSBORO, N.C. — Guilford Education Alliance (GEA) has opened the Teacher Supply Warehouse for another academic year. All of Guilford County Schools' (GCS) educators can shop for free classroom supplies from mid-July through April every year.
The warehouse typically offers new, brand-name supplies, as well as gently used items like games, books, office supplies, and craft materials at no cost. Teachers can shop all year, but the back-to-school season is usually busy.
Teachers often reach into their own pockets, spending between $650 and $1,000 annually on classroom supplies, according to the GEA. “The Warehouse is an easy way for our community to help offset that financial burden and make sure teachers feel the support of our community.”
The AAU is also partnering with the organization to help stock the warehouse. It's hosting a virtual supply drive. People interested in helping can make monetary donations online. Every contribution makes a significant impact:
- $5 = 36 big pink erasers
- $14 = 78 glue sticks
- $25 = class set of clipboards
- $49 = 111 dry erase markers
- $77 = 92 packs of crayons
- $103 = 1152 No. 2 pencils
- $252 = 336 composition notebooks
“The Teacher Supply Warehouse is a unique partnership to support GCS teachers,” says GEA President Zitty Nxumalo, Ph.D. “We are so honored to work with this generous community to be sure that classrooms have the supplies they need to build bright futures – for our students and our community!”
Teachers aren’t the only ones who benefit from the Teacher Supply Warehouse. Each summer, GEA hires summer clerks to help staff the Warehouse.
This year, 10 GCS students or recent graduates gained leadership and job skills while working in the warehouse.
Teachers can sign up for a shopping slot on Guilford Education Alliance's website or this link. It is only for GCS teachers. Staff must show their I.D. to shop.
The Warehouse is currently accepting gently-used supplies and new classroom supplies. Donors can drop off supplies at 311 Pomona Drive, Suite E. There is a loading dock that makes dropping off supplies easy.
For a list of most needed items, go to this link.
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