Teachers Face Increased Costs for Supplies Amid Tariffs, Cuts

Article Summary –

Raelyn Harman’s nonprofit, Teachers’ Teammates, provides essential classroom supplies to teachers in Delaware County facing rising costs due to tariffs and funding cuts, helping them alleviate personal expenses that have surged by 49% since 2015. The nonprofit supports educators in low-income schools by offering a membership program allowing access to necessary supplies, all while the national economic climate, including increased tariffs and reduced federal assistance, exacerbates financial pressures on families and educators. Harman expects a growing demand for their services in the upcoming school year and plans to expand to serve a broader region.

In the bustling warehouse of Teachers’ Teammates in Folcroft, Raelyn Harman showcases aisles brimming with school essentials. From colorful folders to advanced virtual reality headsets, these supplies are destined for Delaware County educators, many of whom purchase classroom items with personal funds.

“Providing supplies doesn’t just save money; it shows community support,” explained Harman. Her nonprofit aids around 1,200 teachers in 87 low-income schools, emphasizing the value of education.

For years, teachers have paid out of pocket for supplies, a trend exacerbated by rising costs and tariffs under President Trump’s policies. Additionally, budget cuts to federal aid tighten family budgets, leaving less for educational needs.

Back-to-school expenses have soared by 7.3%, with index cards up 40% and binders 13% higher, per a report by Groundwork Collaborative and Century Foundation. “Core supplies are impacted by tariffs,” noted Harman, highlighting the uncertainty faced by wholesalers.

Congressional funding cuts further strain families grappling with increased grocery and housing costs, leaving teachers to fill gaps.

Nationwide, educators spent an average of $895 on supplies last year, a 49% rise since 2015. Many, like Katy Crossan from Harris School, depend on Teachers’ Teammates for essential items as district funding falls short for larger needs.

Teachers’ Teammates offers a $40 membership for educators in qualifying schools, allowing access to essential supplies. However, legislative changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act threaten program eligibility, impacting the National School Lunch Program.

Facing escalating tariffs, Crossan expresses concern about technology costs impacting student learning. As demands rise, Harman anticipates a 20-30% increase in support requests, though space limitations pose challenges.

With the nonprofit’s growth, board member Cindi Sutera envisions expanding support beyond Delaware County to cover the tristate area, necessitating a larger warehouse.