On this week’s mini-episode, I want to give my answer to a question I see all the time in our  Facebook community, Creative High School English, and it’s this: What’s the best way to spend a teacher budget? So let’s dive into five great options. . 

Classroom Poster Printing

Over the years I’ve seen a lot of wonderful classroom poster creation from fellow educators and artists across the world. And they look beautiful in framed 8 1/2 X 11. But what if you took your digital download and went bigger? Larger 18 X 24 inch posters in a glossy finish are just $15 when you print them through Canva, and then you can frame them, if you wish, in relatively inexpensive poster frames from Amazon. Larger scale decor in your classroom draws the eye without being overwhelming. Choose colors and art that you love and you can use it year after year. Maybe you want to print stylized book covers, the free PBS Great American Read travel-inspired posters, free digital downloads from Amplifier art, author posters, posters from your favorite Etsy or TPT designer, or something of your own creation. 

Classroom Printer and Ink

While the school photocopier is perfect for everyday handouts, a color printer or your own is a huge asset for all. The. Rest. Gameboards, escape room elements, station signs, bulletin board pieces, library signs, and everything else. 

Plants

While I’ve never had a green thumb, I’ve learned over the years that bringing nature into a space actually boosts productivity and health while providing a sense of calm. Your budget might give you the perfect opportunity to hang some plants by your windows or add a plant stand in the library corner. 

Books

If you’re struggling with restrictions on your library, a budget might allow you for more controlled choice when you order novel-in-verse or graphic-novel book club selections. If you’re happily located in a state where reading is still unrestricted - I hate that I’m even having to write this - then your budget is a wonderful opportunity to shore up your library shelves with new titles your students are drawn to. Maybe your copy of Long Way Down never came back last year, so you buy three more. Or you go ahead and dive in with the whole Heartstopper series. Whatever works in your library, budget gives you the chance to go for it.

Art Supplies

If you like integrating sketchnotes, one-pagers, open-mind activities, and similar forms that combine visual and written communication, having a stock of art materials you can pull out at the right moment will be a major asset. 

Of course, there are a million ways you might spend your teacher budget, and you know your classroom best! But if you’re looking for ideas, this week I recommend you consider the big five of posters, printing, plants, books, and art supplies as stellar options. 

 

Go Further: 

Explore alllll the Episodes of The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast.

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