ANDERSON — A local school district is trying to help teachers who are struggling to pay for classroom supplies.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, 94 percent of public school teachers spend their own money on school supplies.
School districts, like Anderson Community Schools, realize the toll it has on teachers and are working to help them get things like staplers, coats, shirts, hats, and gloves.
"There's so many needs and so we are trying to address things that teachers either can't or shouldn't have to address on their own," Kay Bale, executive director of Anderson Education Foundation, said.
Anderson Community Schools' Education Foundation has created classroom closet for its teachers.
"Teachers are always going above and beyond in so many ways," Bale said.
Teachers in Indiana spend on average $462 of their own money each school year for supplies, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Money for the closet came from a $3,000 donation from the Madison County Credit Union.
"We need to get these supplies that teachers need in their hands," David Dodd, CEO of Madison County Federal Credit Union, said. "It's that simple."
Classroom Closet opened last week and they're hoping other businesses and community partners will get involved.
Anderson isn't the only school with programs to help its teachers. The following schools have similar programs:
- Indianapolis Public Schools has "Teachers Treasures"
- MSD of Lawrence Township has "Educator Exchange
A Central Indiana couple is also working to help provide clothing for kids.
PREVIOUS | Boutique-style pantry provides kids with clothing
Kip and Stacy Bancroft opened Stacy's Sharing Closet in some Southern Hancock County School buildings and is working on expanding to other schools.
