As summer comes to an end, families across North Carolina are gearing up for the back-to-school season. With some kids already back in the classroom and others preparing to return in the coming weeks, it’s officially „crunch time“ for parents and students alike. While some families may be ready to go with all their supplies in hand, others are still scrambling to check off items on their back-to-school lists.
One Chesapeake mom and teacher, Brittany Marsh, is one of those parents who is still in the midst of gathering last-minute supplies for her two children, Minerva and Maxine. As she navigates the aisles of a local store, she carefully selects pencils, erasers, markers, folders, and binders for her kids. Marsh emphasizes the importance of finding affordable options, such as colorful composition notebooks that are both budget-friendly and practical for her children’s needs.
Consumer Reports expert, Samantha Gordon, sheds light on the current shopping landscape for back-to-school supplies. She notes that while prices may have slightly decreased from the previous year, many items remain consistent in availability and quality. Gordon advises parents to make a budget, stick to their shopping list, and utilize money-saving strategies like price matching, coupons, and cashback apps to stay within their financial means.
According to a recent study by Deloitte, parents are expected to spend an average of $586 per child on back-to-school items this year, a slight decrease from the previous year. Marsh, like many other parents, hopes to keep her spending under $300 for herself and her daughters. With expenses adding up quickly, it’s crucial for families to be mindful of their budget and avoid overspending on unnecessary items.
As the new school year approaches, it’s essential for both students and teachers to stay organized and prepared for the upcoming academic year. By planning ahead, sticking to a budget, and utilizing money-saving tips, families can navigate the back-to-school season with ease. Whether it’s stocking up on supplies for the fall semester or preparing for seasonal changes throughout the year, being financially savvy is key to a successful and stress-free school year.