The New Teacher's Guide to Setting Up a Classroom Supply List

Your first supply list

Building your first school supply list is one of those tasks that feels more daunting than it should. You're not sure what you'll need, you don't want to ask for too much or too little, and you've seen the horror stories of parents buying entirely the wrong thing.

Here's a simple approach that takes about 30 minutes and produces a list that actually works.

Step 1: Ask for examples

Before you build anything, ask a colleague in your grade or subject for their previous year's list. Most teachers are happy to share. You're not copying — you're using their experience to avoid rookie mistakes.

Look at what they included, what quantities they asked for, and how they worded each item.

Step 2: Talk to your school

Find out what the school provides. Schools vary enormously in what they stock centrally (construction paper, pencils, basic art supplies) versus what they expect students to bring. Building your list without this information means you'll either ask for things students don't need to buy, or miss things the school assumes you'll request.

Step 3: Write your draft list

Start with the basics:

• Writing tools: pencils, crayons, markers (age-appropriate)
• Paper: notebooks, folders
• Cutting/sticking: scissors, glue sticks
• Organisation: backpack, pencil case
• Practical: water bottle, headphones (if using devices)

Add grade-specific items as needed. If you're not sure about something, leave it out — you can always ask for it mid-year via a wish list.

Step 4: Find and link products

This is where most supply lists improve dramatically. For each item, search for it on Amazon or Target, find a product you'd recommend (check the reviews, check the count, check the specs), and copy the URL.

In ClassGear, paste the URL and the item fills in automatically. Repeat for each item on your list.

If you're not sure which specific product to choose, pick the top-reviewed option in the right category. You're more knowledgeable than you think.

Step 5: Add notes where helpful

For items where parents might have questions — sizes, whether a substitute is okay, specific colour requirements — add a short note. The notes field on each ClassGear item appears right next to the buy button, so it's visible exactly when parents need it.

Step 6: Share it before parents expect it

Publish your list at least three weeks before school starts, ideally in early August. Share the link in your welcome letter, with your school's parent coordinator, and anywhere you communicate with families.

Being early signals that you're organised and prepared — an excellent first impression going into your first year.

Don't overthink it

Your first supply list will not be perfect. Some items you won't need. Some items you'll wish you'd included. That's fine — this is the learning year.

What matters most is that every student shows up on day one with something close to what you need, so you can start teaching instead of managing the logistics of missing supplies.

ClassGear is free to use, takes minutes to set up, and you can update it anytime. Start simple, publish early, and refine it next year.