I used to buy all sorts of supplies for my seventh- and eighth-graders—from basics like pencils and notepads to materials that helped students see their own diversity represented in the room, in my classroom library and in my lessons. And, like millions of teachers, I paid for those supplies out of my own paycheck.
Our government may not adequately fund education yet, but last week, the House of Representatives actually passed a bipartisan bill that would extend the teacher tax deduction. This deduction allows teachers and other school professionals to deduct up to $250 per year from their taxes to help offset money spent to provide additional classroom supplies for students.
Many of these supplies, like books and paper, should be provided by schools but aren’t, because of ongoing austerity and budget cuts. We know that many teachers have spent their own money to help maintain a creative and engaging learning environment in the classroom. Those who have paid out of their own pockets for books, supplies, computer equipment, and other equipment and materials could greatly benefit from this deduction.
In unity,
Mary Cathryn Ricker
AFT Executive Vice President