Having the right school supplies is key to a successful school year, according to the Kids In Need Foundation (KINF) “Teacher Insight Survey.” The survey found that nearly two-thirds of students lack adequate supplies at home to complete schoolwork, while 64 percent run out of supplies before the school year ends. Teachers say these challenges can affect not only academic performance but also students’ confidence, engagement and sense of belonging in the classroom.
“I wish people outside of education could truly see how much supply challenges affect students on a daily basis—not just academically, but emotionally,” shared one elementary school teacher. “It’s not simply about pencils or paper; it’s about whether a child feels prepared, included and ready to learn.”
For schools serving communities with the greatest need, access to supplies can shape how students experience education itself. The findings come as schools across the country continue working to address disparities in student outcomes and educational opportunities.
Research from Stanford University’s Educational Opportunity Project has found that educational outcomes are closely tied to differences in opportunity and socioeconomic conditions, underscoring the importance of addressing barriers that can affect student participation, preparedness and engagement long before a test is ever taken.
“The conversations around achievement gaps are too often post facto,” said Corey Gordon, CEO of the Kids In Need Foundation. “Our teachers are seeing the factors that contribute to those challenges in real time, every day in their classrooms. Their insights help us better understand where students need support, and together we can help remove barriers that stand between students and their opportunity to fully engage in their own learning, while we can still make an impact.”
The survey also highlights the growing financial burden educators face in meeting student needs. Nearly 26 percent of respondents reported spending more than $550 of their own money annually on classroom supplies.
While data from the National Education Association (NEA) estimates teachers spend between $500 and $900 out of pocket each year, KINF’s survey findings suggest educators served through the organization’s programs may experience somewhat lower costs, due in part to the resources and support available through KINF’s network.
However, the financial strain remains significant, particularly as school supply costs continue to rise. In a 2025 report, the NEA projected school supply costs would increase by 7.3 percent, with additional price increases of 12 percent to 15 percent expected because of ongoing economic and supply chain pressures.
Against this backdrop, more than 42 percent of educators surveyed by KINF said they have considered leaving the profession because they feel under-resourced and under-supported. Despite these challenges, educators remain committed to providing students with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.
