Program providing supplies for teachers

Every year before the start of school, second-grade teacher Teresa Williams finds herself opening her pocketbook to purchase classroom supplies.

"The school district gives us as much as they can, and the PTO gives us a nice donation, but it's not always enough," said Williams, who teaches at Clippard Elementary. "I spend an average of $50 at the beginning of the school year on bulletin boards and name tags."

Beyond the initial back to school purchases, Williams said most teachers spend an average of $25 a month of their own money on additional supplies and rewards for students.

Last year, local teachers benefited from Tools for Teachers -- a program overseen by Cheryl Ellis, editor of the Southeast Missourian Jr. Through donations from area businesses and individuals, Tools for Teachers was able to distribute hundreds of supplies to 20 classrooms in Cape Girardeau, Scott, Perry and Bollinger counties.

"Teachers are important," Ellis said. "They're a big influence on our kids. They're out there working hard every day to educate our children, and this is something we can do to give back to them."

Need replacements

According to Williams and other teachers, many area students and their parents can't afford to continually replace supplies through the school year.

"Most of my students do come with the supplies needed to start the school year," Williams said. "But just a few weeks into the year, we already need replacements, and a lot of parents aren't financially able make those replacements."

"That's why Tools for Teachers is such a worthwhile program. Not only do teachers benefit, but students benefit, and I hope it continues," Williams said.

Denise McDowell, a second-grade teacher at North Elementary in Jackson, Mo., said there are a lot of little things parents don't realize teachers pay for.

"Every week when I go to the grocery store I just naturally add classroom supplies into my family budget," McDowell said.

Last year, McDowell received items like paper plates, towels, plastic baggies and index cards through Tools for Teachers.

"Those supplies help teachers do things in their classrooms they might not otherwise be able to do," she said.

Supplies are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and donations will be accepted through Wednesday, Aug. 28. For more information, call Ellis at (573) 335-6611, extension 111.

cchitwood@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 128