Amid the back-to-school season, North Carolina teachers are facing significant financial challenges, ranking second in the nation for out-of-pocket spending on classroom essentials.
A new national report from CouponBirds reveals that North Carolina educators are spending an average of over $1,600 annually on classroom supplies. The North Carolina Association of Educators notes that the out-of-pocket spending level is a 22% increase from last year’s average of $1,338.
According to the report, the highest spending states include Pennsylvania at $1,637, North Carolina at $1,632, and Arizona at $1,581, while the lowest spending states are Nebraska at $473, West Virginia at $502, and Oklahoma at $545.
For North Carolina teachers, essential items, including basic school supplies, snacks, and cleaning products, make up large portions of their spending costs.
- 98% on consumable school supplies (e.g., paper, pencils)
- 80% on classroom décor
- 72% on educational aids
- 35% on snacks
- 33% on cleaning supplies
- 32% on first aid supplies
According to the report, over 95% of teachers reported using their own money to purchase classroom materials—up 2% from last year. Over 82% of teachers also reported that their classrooms would suffer without these out-of-pocket contributions.
“Many of our educators are working for Uber or at retail stores,” Tamika Walker Kelly, the president of NCAE, told ABC 11. “That should not be the North Carolina story. Our educators should have one job: supporting the academic and personal journeys of our students.”
The financial burden comes at a time when teacher pay is stagnant, while the state goes without a proper budget.
“Many educators are starting the year without knowing what their salary will be, or whether their years of service will be fully recognized,” stated Rachel Candaso, the
2025 North Carolina Teacher of the Year, in a press release urging lawmakers to pass a state budget.
“Without a passed budget, educators are faced with the heartbreaking decision of whether they can afford to stay in the profession they love. I call on our legislators to pass a budget that honors our work and invests in North Carolina’s future.”
Additionally, the Trump administration has issued executive orders to dismantle the Department of Education and passed a federal budget bill that will strip away critical funding from public education, leaving millions of students and schools vulnerable.
