Next to teaching and Netflix, shopping on Amazon is my next favorite hobby. Through COVID restrictions and the holidays, I am convinced my neighbors think it is more like an addiction. But now that the holiday season is nearly over, I am back to bargain shopping for my classroom. We at Education to the Core realize teachers spend way too much already out of their own pockets so we have shopped for you and found 15 products that every classroom and teacher needs. The best part is they are all under $15! So here is our line-up of 15 Amazon Products Under $15 That Teachers Need…
#1 – Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens, Assorted 12 count for $11.97
I love Flair pens and use them all of the time in my classroom, especially when grading. The kids love seeing the different colors on their papers; I love the smooth writing. I can never have enough!
Product #2 – Learning Resources Answer Buzzers, 4 for $12.59
This is a bargain. My class loves to use these in our small groups for responding to questions. We also use them with teams for indoor recess games. Anything that motivates the kids to learn and respond makes it on a must-have list!
#3 – Kicko Putty with Glitter, 48 pack for $13.99
Sensory putty needs are clear in my class but I hate them sharing containers and thus, sharing germs. COVID has also made it necessary for kids to have individual items. These individual tubs of glitter putty are perfect for the kids to each have their own when they are needing something to squish and what a great price!
Product #4 – Elmer’s All-Purpose School Glue Sticks, 30 count for $5.50
I had to look at this price twice! We go through a lot of glue sticks, lose a lot of lids, and the 2 sticks per student that we start the year off with is never enough. I am an Elmer’s only teacher like many of you as I feel it sticks to the most materials without using a ton and this price is unheard of for them!
#5 – EXPO 80078 Low Odor Dry Erase Markers, Chisel Tip, 8 pk for $10.12
Expo markers are life in my room and typically worth the extra price in stores. But then I found these on Amazon and am definitely stocking up. It is an 8 different color chisel tip pack; also you will love the fact that these are low odor.
Product #6 – Paper Mate Gel Pens, InkJoy Pens, 14 count for $14.98
I have already listed Paper Mate Flair Felt Tips but with the variety of colors in the gel pen pack as well as it being the 14 count pack, how can I leave this off any Amazon list?!! I love having a variety of pens and a variety of types and colors but if you like gel pens, these are for you. As for me, I am getting both!
#7 – Ticonderoga Pencils, Pre-sharpened 72 pack for $14.99
Most teachers know that Ticonderoga is the best pencil ever. And unfortunately, most classrooms have magically disappearing pencils. Keep a box of these pre-sharpened pencils on hand so that whenever a child needs a replacement pencil, you are ready. I am thrilled with this large pack for such a low price!
Product #8 – 6 pack Dry Erase Pockets by Essex Wares for $10.99
I use dry erase pockets daily with my students both in small groups and centers. Being able to use less paper while allowing the kids to use their dry erase markers for some work is a win-win situation in the classroom. Personally, I prefer this brand and definitely prefer pockets to sheet protectors for the easiest clean-up.
#9 – 48 Pieces Magnetic Whiteboard and Dry Erase Erasers, Bone Shaped for $14.99
These are fun bone shaped erasers that are perfect for each child to use an individual eraser for all their dry-erase activities. They work well and are the perfect size for little hands-on small boards!
Product #10 – Astrobrights Colored Cardstock, 75 sheets, Assorted Colors for $7.89
I never seem to have enough cardstock when creating those great products I purchase from TPT. For any project that I plan on laminating, I put on cardstock first to give it a little extra stability. Astrobrights is my favorite brand due to the bright colors and quality of the paper. You need this now!
#11 – Transparent Hanging Pocket Chart for $12.99
If you don’t have one of these and can’t think of anything to use it for, let me tell you: 36 pockets perfect for 36 pairs of wired earbuds! Add a name label to each pocket and every child will have a storage spot for their own earbuds.
Product #12 – Ruyixws 4 pack Digital Kitchen Timers for $11.99
These timers are small, magnetic, and colorful. Whether it be for a child needing a little quiet time away or an alert to when work time is over and recess begins, these timers work great in the classroom. I keep them in my calming spots in the room and also with my small groups’ cart.
#13 – Orwine Squishies 28 pieces for $12.99
These little squishies are perfect as part of a calming spot or for fidgety hands during listening activities. The set includes 28 of them so each kiddo can have their own for when a little sensory is needed. At 50 cents each, the price is unbeatable!
Product #14 – 3D Face Inner Bracket, Reusable Inner Support Frame for $7.99
Teaching in masks hasn’t been easy for those of us that have returned to in-person learning. Sometimes our voices are muffled, our breathing is blocked, and our faces are suffering breakouts. These support frames gently have the mask slightly away from your nose, mouth, and skin while still keeping the edges secure; making it easier to breathe and talk. Very easy to wash and re-use!
#15 – Puridea 12 oz Insulated Wine Tumbler with Lid for $6.99
And after a long day of school, enjoy a glass of your favorite beverage (wine!) in these great insulated tumblers. They come in a wide variety of colors and each comes with a lid. These tumblers are a teacher’s need and for $15 you can get one for you and one for your teacher bestie!
We have put together this Amazon list with links to help you with some classroom supplies that should be on your must-have list at these prices. As promised, everything is under $15.00! Please share with us your thoughts on these products and tell us what we’ve missed. Happy Shopping!
Written by: Suzanne Kelley
At Education to the Core, we exist to help our teachers build a stronger classroom as they connect with our community to find trusted, state-of-the-art resources designed by teachers for teachers. We aspire to be the world’s leading & most trusted community for educational resources for teachers. We improve the lives of every teacher and learner with the most comprehensive, reliable, and inclusive educational resources.
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