CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Teachers in North Carolina are spending an average of $1,632 of their own money each year to equip their classrooms with basic supplies, snacks, and other necessities, according to a new CouponBirds report.
The figure puts North Carolina as the second-highest state in the nation for teacher out-of-pocket spending — just $5 behind Pennsylvania. The national average sits much lower at $1,021.
Rising Costs and Stagnant Pay
The report shows a 22% increase from last year’s $1,338 average, meaning teachers are shouldering hundreds of dollars more without additional compensation.
The North Carolina Association of Educators has voiced concern, pointing out that these rising expenses come at a time when teacher pay remains stagnant and no state budget has been finalized.
What’s Driving the Spending
Teachers often purchase items like:
- Notebooks, pens, and art supplies
- Cleaning products and sanitizers
- Snacks for students without food
- Decorations and learning aids to make classrooms more engaging
With limited funding for classroom essentials, educators say personal spending is often the only way to provide students with necessary resources.
Calls for Legislative Action
Advocates argue that the state must address this growing financial strain to prevent teacher burnout and retain educators. Lawmakers are under pressure to include classroom supply stipends or reimbursement programs in the upcoming budget talks…