Cost of school supplies a math problem

By PHYLLIS ZORN

Staff writer

The cost of education has gotten very high.

That’s what’s driving so many students to community colleges instead of universities.

But high costs are not limited to secondary education. They trickle clear down to prekindergarten students.

School supply lists are out, and parents are buying items their kids need — if they can.

It’s no secret some parents can’t afford to buy everything, and schools try to find ways to help those students.

Examples of items on school supply lists include notebooks, backpacks, pencils and pens, headphones, tissues, and dry erase markers.

Hillsboro

Hillsboro school superintendent Clint Corby said his district’s elementary students don’t have to bring school supplies from home.

“Parkview Church donates all school supplies to Hillsboro Elementary,” Corby said. “There’s not one single student who has to pay for those supplies. We couldn’t be happier with that partnership, and we’re very appreciative.”

American Family Insurance has a supply drive for middle and high school students, Corby said.

“As kids come in who are needing backpacks, paper, and pens, we’re able to get them taken care of,” Corby said.

As more supplies are needed later in the year, Corby said, the district is able to provide them through those donations.

Marion

A couple of groups collect backpack supplies for Marion students, according to district manager Jordan Metro.

One is Marion County Food Bank, which operates a school supply program in conjunction with local churches.

The schools also collect school supplies for students, Metro said.

“We do have other programs that donate for kids,” Metro said. “Florence has its own drive for Florence kids who can’t afford those supplies.”

A school backpack program is supported by donations from the community, superintendent Justin Wasmuth said

“They ask if people want to donate or give a complete backpack,” he said.

Schools send a note to elementary school parents each spring asking them to fill out and return the form if they need help with school supplies.

Parents of new students may ask for supplies before the start of the school year.

“We also have some backup supplies on hand at the school,” Wasmuth said. “If we’re short or need more supplies, we have that to use.”

Centre

Although Centre doesn’t have a specific program that helps students with school supplies, Kay’s Pharmacy in Herington is offering free school supplies for students of several school districts.

Goessel

High school secretary Missy Wonders said students needing assistance with school supplies were helped by Goessel churches and a backpack program.

Peabody-Burns

Peabody-Burns schools could not be reached for comment.