They are not only helping teachers, but are investing in our children future.

Growing up with both parents as elementary school teachers, I witnessed first hand how their money was not their own. With cut backs in the schools they purchased the supplies for their rooms , they had to keep up on their continuing education and trying to raise a family things were tough.

Being a teacher is a labor of love.

Many people are unaware that teachers buy things for their classrooms like...

  • Books
  • Puzzles
  • Games
  • Crayons
  • Tissue
  • Toys
  • Paper
  • Pencils
  • Scissors
  • Erasers
  • Notebooks
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Tissue

And those are just the common items they need. Some teachers even supply food and snacks for children that need a meal.

USA Today claims that the average salary for a Kalamazoo Teacher is $32,323.00 per year. That is not much per year if you consider that they have a college education (most likely paying off student loans), attempting to buy a home or simply pay rent, and have some extra pocket money. With that in mind, a number of well known retails are trying to help teachers out as the new school year quickly approaches!

USA Today compiled a list of businesses giving teachers a discount prior to stepping into their classrooms this year...

  • Dollar General is offering teachers 20% off stationary when they show a valid school ID  through Sept. 7.
  • Michaels has an everyday teacher discount with 15% off an entire purchase with a valid school ID. But from Sunday through July 20, teachers get 20% off their entire purchase and a special gift with purchase that will be available while supplies last.
  • Teachers save 15% on purchases daily at the arts and crafts store when they register at www.joann.com.
  • From July 13-20, Target is offering teachers an in-store and online 15% discount on school supplies and essentials, adult clothing and accessories and more.
  • Staples is holding "Back to School Block Party" two-day events for students, parents and teachers at all stores nationwide with giveaways and a 20% school supply shopping pass. Find out when your local Staples' party is at www.staples.com.
  • From July 14 through Sept. 28, teachers will receive 20% back in store rewards on qualifying in-store purchases when they present a coupon, a valid teacher ID and a rewards number at checkout. The coupon will be posted at www,officedepot.com/teachers
  • Through Sept. 28, Meijer is offering teachers a 15% discount on school and home office supplies.
  • Barnes & Noble offers educators a 20% discount on qualifying purchases year-round. But on weekends this summer starting July 20 and through Sept. 15, the bookseller is holding Back-to-School Educator Appreciation Days with up to 25% off.

There are so many wonderful teachers that have made a huge difference in my life and I am pretty sure you can think of one or two yourself! Thank you to all the companies that are not only making teachers life easier, but investing in our future leaders.

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