You can’t go wrong with a shopping list of basics and things to keep your student organized.

What’s the smart way to shop for school supplies? Eliminate the guesswork by getting a list from your child’s teacher ahead of time or waiting until school starts to find out what’s actually required. The teacher may recommend specific brands, sizes, or quantities, but even if the list isn’t available, you can still take advantage of back-to-school sales (many states offer “tax-free days” during this season) by sticking to the basics recommended below. And remember, you can’t go wrong with tools that help kids get — and stay — organized.
The basics

No. 2 pencils, Mechanical pencils, Colored pencils, Pencil sharpener (manual with a top to collect shavings), Large pink eraser, Ballpoint pens (Get a few red, purple or green ink ones, too, because some teachers have students do peer editing.), Highlighters, Spiral-bound or composition notebooks, Loose-leaf notebook paper (Teachers can be picky about paper. Some middle schools ask that students use the college-ruled variety.), Ruler with English and metric measurements, Organizational helpers, Several three-ring binders (Some teachers require that a binder be used exclusively for their class.), A three-hole punch (a regular one or one that fits in a three-ring binder), A pencil case that fits in a binder, Binder dividers (The kinds with pockets are good for loose papers.), Pocket folders, Folders that fit in binders, Small notebook to record assignments, Calendar for scheduling assignments, Sturdy, supportive backpack (Some schools do not permit rolling backpacks because of space considerations, so check with your school before considering this option.), Two combination locks (If the school lockers do not have built-in locks, your child might need one for the hallway and one for the gym.)