Consumer adviser Clark Howard is urging families to stick to a shopping list to manage rising back-to-school costs as Channel 9’s 30th annual “School Tools” drive begins. The drive, held in partnership with Classroom Central, is currently collecting donations across the Charlotte area.
According to Howard, items like pens, paper and pencils can quickly strain a budget when purchased without a plan.
“My No. 1 rule... creating your list and sticking to it... having a plan for your back-to-school shopping is the biggest way to save,” Howard said.
He recommends a combination of reusing existing supplies, utilizing price-tracking technology and participating in community giveaways to find savings.
Retailers such as Walmart, Dollar Tree and Target often feature significantly reduced prices on basic supplies to attract shoppers. Howard, who has served as a consumer adviser for decades, cautioned that these deals are often intended to draw customers into the store for other purchases.
“Shopping in store is going to provide some of the biggest discounts... stores like Walmart... Dollar Tree... or Target... all have drastically reduced pricing on basic school supplies... but remember that’s the hook to get you in the door,” Howard said.
Howard emphasized the importance of discipline when navigating retail aisles, noting that trendy products can distract from a set budget.
“You have to be willing to walk away from a purchase to stay on track with your list... no matter how cool or trendy a product may be,” he said.
He suggests that if a family truly needs an item later in the year, they can purchase it at that time rather than buying based on assumed needs.
Before heading to a store, families are encouraged to audit items already in the home. Howard suggested that if a backpack still provides support and functions well, it should be reused. He also noted that passing down clothes from older siblings can reduce both expenses and waste.
“If your child’s backpack is still providing good support and is in good working condition... reuse it!” Howard said.
For those who prefer to shop online, Howard recommends using price-tracking technology to monitor fluctuations throughout the year.
At Walmart, for example, a three-pack of Elmer’s school glue sticks typically costs $5.22 but often drops to nearly half that price during the back-to-school season.
“Using price tracking tools throughout the year can help you find when prices are at their lowest,” Howard said. “Like using Google’s shopping tool.”
He added that shoppers should remain vigilant to ensure they are using legitimate websites when they see large discounts.
Community resources can also provide relief for families who cannot meet all their supply needs. Howard suggested checking with local school districts or searching on Eventbrite to find charity events.
“Charity events and giveaways can also help fill the gap... you can check with your local school district or sites like Eventbrite to find them,” Howard said.
Howard reiterated that sticking to a plan is the most effective way to avoid overspending.
“Most important thing I learned from buying back to school for my three kids is don’t just buy something because, oh, you think you might need it? Stick to your list. If you truly need something later, then you buy it,” Howard said.
The ongoing “School Tools” drive provides another avenue for support. New school supplies are being accepted at all Charlotte fire stations, ER Services and local Ashley stores. Dash Courier and Logistics is providing transportation for the donated items.
A full list of donation drop-off sites is available at 9SchoolTools.com.
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