Staff Writer
Some students might be drained in the final month of the school year, but one cost-saving tool of teachers and school officials across Northeast Florida isn’t.
The Teacher Supply Depot, where donated materials from businesses and individuals are stored and distributed free to teachers throughout the area, is doing well in terms of stock.
“We’re doing pretty well,” said Chris Buckley, Depot manager, “but we can always do better.”
While items like pens, pencils, notebook paper and other everyday items are always in short supply, Buckley explained that the economic recession has worked to some degree in favor of the Depot.
When businesses shut their doors or consolidate, they often dispose of everything, from fixtures and furniture to frames and even copper wire. Those supplies can benefit the Depot while providing a tax break for the company.
The Depot, at 3108 Lenox Ave., opens its doors once a month in the afternoon for teachers to peruse and “shop,” free of charge, for items they can incorporate into their curriculums.
“Especially now, it can be tough for teachers to get everything they need for their students,” said Buckley.
Buckley said teachers have told her of saving from $1,000 to $2,000 a year by visiting the depot instead of spending their own money on materials.
Office supplies such as staplers, rubber bands, manila envelopes and clipboards are common donations. Other items, such as milk cartons, wallpaper books, frames, Styrofoam packing materials and more, often are used in artistic, creative ways by teachers.
“More likely than not, there’s a use for it,” said Buckley. “Teachers often come here, see something and find a way to incorporate it.”
Computers, however, are not accepted. There’s too much of a risk for viruses, outdated software and inappropriate material reaching the system once installed, she said.
Computer accessories are welcome, however.
While Buckley staffs the depot, dedicated volunteers spend time there each day along with volunteers from senior citizens’ groups and other organizations, all of whom collect, sort and arrange materials that are dropped off daily.
While not the first such facility, the Jacksonville Teacher Supply Depot has attracted others from around the country who came for a closer look and took the idea back to their school districts, said Buckley. She’s even met officials from England who were interested.
The May event is invitation-only and the last before the hectic annual “Back to School Giveaway” Aug. 14, just in time for the next school year.
“It’s by far our craziest day of the year,” said Buckley. “Everyone is getting prepared for the school year and looking for things they can use.”
Until then, Buckley and volunteers will continue to stockpile donations.
For more information about the Teacher Supply Depot, including donation opportunities, call 381-7480.
Inside the numbers
Since opening in September 1996, the Teacher Supply Depot has:
• received materials from 950 contributors
• received $20.5 million worth of supplies
• held 63 giveaway days
• logged more than 20,000 teacher, principal and PTA president visits
Source: Duval County Public Schools
356-2466