Students are now back in the classroom, but it wasn’t inexpensive getting them there according to some parents.
With rising prices for everything, parents did what they needed to do for their child’s clothing and school supplies as prices have increased on everything the past year.
In a recent survey, the National Retail Foundation found families with children in elementary through high schools would spend a little more than $890. That number is up from last year’s record, which was already an all-time high, according to the foundation.
The foundation attribute supply chain issues as some of the factors driving up costs for students and parents. Unfortunately, according to the foundation, they are not the only ones that took a hit. Some teachers are still using their own money to make sure their students have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom.
Jasmine Sullivan of Joliet, who has two children in high school, said costs have skyrocketed when it comes to school supplies and clothing.
“My kids wanted new outfits for school and that alone is expensive,” she said. “I am a single mother, so it is really hitting my pocketbooks. At least both of my kids had part-time jobs this summer, so they paid for some of the items they wanted.”
Minerva Gonzalez, also of Joliet, said she is thankful community organizations stepped up to help parents defray some of these high costs. She thanked the Times Weekly for hosting the Back-to-School Festival earlier the 1st week in August when free school supplies and backpacks were given away.
“This really helped us out,” she said. “It is hard enough putting food on the table, but this went a long way. Every little bit helps out families like us.”
James Kosecky of Bolingbrook, who has two children in elementary school, said proper planning is key to hunting for deals.
“A lot of stores like Staples and Wal-Mart had back to school sales, which we definitely used,” he said. “If you are willing to go to a couple of different places and shop, then you can come way under on your budget.”
