Hi,
Our school uses two ways to get the supplies the students/teachers need that can't be met via the school budget. Firstly, we use a bulletin board in the front hallway for a teacher wish tree. It's made of construction paper and has leaves the teacher can write their wish on and staple to the branches. Parents can take a leaf, purchase the supply and give to the teacher. Ordinarily, at this time of the year, if there are unfulfilled wishes on the tree, PTO will gather the leaves and purchase the wish items and distribute them. Secondly, all during the year PTO will have an ear open to find out specific needs---the teachers all know who we are and know they can come directly to us with requests. PTO generally tries to use our personal memberships in a wholesale club( i.e. Sam's. Costco. Price Club etc.) to purchase things like inkjet cartridges plus we're all major league bargain shoppers, so if one of us sees a great deal, we'll consult and usually go for it. For paper and things, try going to a major office supply store in your area( i.e. Staples, OfficeMax, Office Depot) and speak to the manager. This is particularly good if you're contemplating a relatively large purchase---say, a case of paper for each classroom. Most managers are sympathetic to schools' lack of funding and are willing to cut you a deal.PetSmart offers special discounts/freebies for teachers, as does JoAnn fabrics. I got a lot of mileage out of going to
www.freethingsforeducators.com
It lists different things available free for teachers, just for the asking in most cases. The list is updated frequently, so sign up for their free newsletter.
Good luck, hope this helps.
