We all know the importance of a well-organized, efficient classroom {for both us and our students}. While our schools often provide common supplies {looking at you boring pencils and basic crayons!}, having your very own set of must-have tools can make your day run much smoother. You might already have access to a few of these in your staff room, but having your personal versions within reach in your classroom is a game-changer.
Here are some classroom supplies that can save you time, make prep work more efficient, and honestly, just make you smile!
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Personal Laminator
Sure, there may be a laminator in the teacher’s lounge or staff work room, but having your own personal laminator in the classroom is a must! Whether you need to laminate name tags, Centers materials, or anchor charts, having this tool on hand ensures you can tackle last-minute prep tasks without running down the hall. Plus, it’s a lifesaver when you want to protect those materials for reuse year after year.
I’ve also found that a personal laminator allows you to use a stronger material than the laminate most schools provide. Pro-tip: splurge on the Scotch pouches – they are the thickest and smoothest to run through your machine. I also love that they come in all sorts of sizes – from full page to smaller {so you don’t need to waste a whole sheet!} Although, I have been known to cut a sheet and half and save it for later 😂
Paper Cutter
I honestly think my classroom paper cutter may be the supply I use most! At least once I daily am slicing something – from prepping centers or an art project.
I’m sure your workroom has a paper cutter, but having one right at your fingertips makes quickly cutting things so convenient. Don’t make trips back and forth to the staff room – get your own paper cutter!
Pro tip – it’s worth the extra cost to buy the wooden paper cutter instead of the plastic one. I’ve found the plastic paper cutter is too lightweight and it tends to shift around the counter more. On the upside, it is easier to pull in and out of a cupboard.
Electric Pencil Sharpener
Let’s face it—those manual pencil sharpeners just don’t cut it {pun intended}. And do they even exist in all classrooms anymore?
Having a heavy-duty sharpener in your classroom means pencils stay sharp without you running back and forth to the workroom.
Small Label Maker
Organization is key in any classroom, and this cute and easy to use label maker is an essential tool for keeping things tidy and easy to find!
Whether you’re labeling bins, folders, student materials, or classroom supplies, a label maker can make everything look clean and professional.
Plus, students appreciate knowing exactly where everything belongs – and makes cleaning up even easier.
Related Reading: Using a Thermal Printer in Your Classroom
Stapler and Staple Remover
Okay, so of course we all have a stapler or two in our classrooms, but do you have a good stapler? A solid, reliable stapler is a classroom essential! I love this one because it’s easy for everyone to use – even little people hands!
But don’t forget the equally important staple remover! I love this one because it is magnetic and catches all the staples you pull off the wall as you take your students’ art off the walls.
Wireless Glue Guns
For those classroom craft projects or setting up your classroom at the start of the year, a glue gun is indispensable. It allows you to quickly and securely attach items to walls {with no damage!} But the gamechanger is a wireless glue gun! You can walk all over your classroom and help students out.
Mini Vacuum
We all know how messy our classrooms get each day {hello, glitter, paper scraps, and pencil shavings!} Having a handheld dustbuster makes quick cleanups a breeze. It’s great for tidying up in between lessons or at the end of the day without having to wait for the janitorial staff to come through.
Even better? You can designate one student a day to use the vaccum during Tidy Time. They will think they are the big cheese of the classroom {and more importantly, you’re helping to build a strong ownership of the classroom}
Magnetic Hooks and Magnets
Maximize your whiteboard or chalkboard space by using magnets! Magnetic Hooks are perfect for hanging up anchor charts and pocket charts. I love that they help keep the classroom materials visible and accessible without taking up extra space.
And I use these amazing magnets from Office Depot for everything! They are small but mighty! {This is a great alternative from Amazon}
While schools typically provide the basics, having your own set of must-have classroom supplies can save you time, keep you organized, and reduce frustration during busy school days {let’s be honest – that’s everyday!}
These tools are small investments that will make a huge difference in your classroom’s functionality and your overall productivity. What other must-have tools do you rely on in your classroom? Share in the comments below!
Need more fun ideas? Make sure to check out this post, too!
