Charlotte, North Carolina.According to a recent CouponBirds research, teachers in North Carolina spend an average of $1,632 of their own funds annually to furnish their classrooms with basic supplies, snacks, and other requirements.
According to the data, North Carolina is only $5 less than Pennsylvania as the second-highest state in the country for teacher out-of-pocket expenses. At $1,021, the national average is significantly lower.
Rising Costs and Stagnant Pay
Teachers are bearing hundreds of dollars more without receiving higher pay, according to the research, which shows a 22% increase over the $1,338 average from the previous year.
Concern has been raised by the North Carolina Association of Educators, which notes that these growing costs coincide with stagnating teacher salaries and an unfinished state budget.
What s Driving the Spending
Teachers frequently buy things like:
- Notebooks, pens, and art supplies
- Cleaning products and sanitizers
- Snacks for students without food
- Decorations and learning aids to make classrooms more engaging
Teachers say personal spending is frequently the only option to give pupils the things they need because there is little money for classroom necessities.
Calls for Legislative Action
In order to avoid teacher burnout and retain educators, proponents contend that the state needs to address this increasing financial burden. There is pressure on lawmakers to incorporate compensation programs or stipends for classroom supplies in the next budget negotiations.
Have you or a loved one used their own funds to help students? Tell the Saluda Standard-Sentinel about your experience to help bring attention to the everyday struggles teachers face.
