Having the right school supplies helps teachers to stay organized in the classroom. While a school's budget is usually a tight one, even cheap school supplies can make a significant difference in helping a teacher keep track of assignments, evaluations, tests, schedules, student information and all of the little details that help create a positive learning environment.

Tape
One of the most essential school supplies for teachers is transparent tape. It is used on an almost-daily basis to hang things up and to hold things together. Kept in a lightweight plastic dispenser or a heavy, refillable desk model, it is a mainstay for craft projects, class assignments and little emergencies.

Wastebaskets
One way to keep an orderly room is to have more than one wastebasket. Stationing one by the desk and one by the door will help students remember to throw away anything that can be considered trash. For schools that recycle, wastebaskets can sit side-by-side in the classroom to help kids separate the recyclables from the trash.

Manila Folders
Whether the classroom is practically paperless or not quite there yet, manila folders are an important part of staying organized. They not only keep similar items together, they prevent students from looking at important or confidential information. Manila folders are school supplies for teachers that are typically kept in filing cabinets and help to keep worksheets, tests and quizzes in order. They are portable and can be used and reused as needed.

Large Envelopes
One telltale sign of an organized mind is the presence of envelopes. These are typically used to keep track of tests, worksheets and homework assignments. They are a simple way to keep important papers and school supplies out of harm's way.

Teaching Aids
As long as there are teachers and children in classrooms, there will be homework assignments and extra work. Worksheets, puzzles, word games and math problems gives children an opportunity to practice what they are learning from their textbooks and computer workstations. Teaching aids help to reinforce and clarify in a fun and entertaining way.

Writing Instruments
Every teacher needs something to write with. While chalk is still used in some environments, most teachers use dry erase boards, computers and just plain pens and pencils when they are writing instructions for students and grading papers. Even the smallest school budget has room for writing utensils.

Staying organized at school is a key to effective teaching and learning. These and other items can be found at discount and wholesale stores.