A Definitive Guide to the Best Products for Teachers at Target

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Back-to-school season is right around the corner, and we can hardly believe it ourselves. If you're a teacher or know someone who is, now is the perfect opportunity to stock up on essential classroom supplies for all grades, from elementary school and beyond. When it comes to all things — including school necessities — we often turn to Target, and this year is no exception. The retailer's unbeatable school deals are back, with prices starting at a mere 50 cents.

Your checklist may already be quite comprehensive, but there could be a few gems that have slipped under the radar. While the basics like number-two pencils, notebooks, and folders are a given, don't overlook the fun of creative supplies such as those scented markers that have stood the test of time. And, of course, consider some innovative storage solutions to maintain an impeccably organized learning environment.

So what are you waiting for? Keep on reading to shop our top 15 selects to pick up at Target before stuff sells out (because it definitely will).

Best Hand Sanitizer
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Best Hand Sanitizer

up & up Hand Sanitizer Clear Gel ($2)

Staying stocked up on hand sanitizer is such an easy way to prevent the spread of germs. This particular one is paraben and phthalate-free and enriched with moisturizer so as not to try out your hands.

Best #2 Pencils
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Best #2 Pencils

up & up #2 Wood Pencils 24ct ($1)

These wood pencils are classroom essentials. They're also as affordable as it gets, so you might as well stock up for the school year.

Best Lined Filler Paper
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Best Lined Filler Paper

Top Flight 175 Sheet College Ruled Filler Paper ($1)

You can never have enough college-ruled filler paper because students are bound to ask for some. The retailer also carries the wide-ruled version. See: the Top Flight 175 Sheet Wide Ruled Filler Paper ($1).


Best Folder
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Best Folder

U Brands 2 Pocket Fashion Plastic Folder ($2)

If your kids need folders, this one is equal parts playful and practical. It has two interior pockets for organizing loose notes and prong fasteners to keep your papers secure.

Best Plastic Bins
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Best Plastic Bins

IRIS USA Large Multi-Purpose Plastic Bins ($30)

Every teacher knows that smart storage is key to a clean classroom. These ones can help you color code all your classroom essentials.

Best Disinfectant
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Best Disinfectant

Clorox Crisp Lemon Disinfecting Wipes ($3)

Having these Lysol wipes nearby is an easy way to clean up spills or disinfect germy desks. You might as well level up to the 75-count version while you're at it.

Best Dry-Erase Pockets
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Best Dry-Erase Pockets

Pacon 20ct 9" x 12" Dry Erase Pockets ($33)

These dry-erase pockets are brilliant if you're short on paper or want to reuse them. Slip them over the paper, and the kids can write on them without writing on the paper itself.

Best Conversation Cubes
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Best Conversation Cubes

Learning Resources Let's Talk Cubes ($12)

These talking cubes are a fun way to gamify opening up and speaking. It's a great trick to have up a teacher's sleeve that's great for small groups or one-on-one.

Best Handwashing Timer
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Best Handwashing Timer

Learning Resources 20-Second Handwashing Timer ($12)

Handwashing is a critical skill to teach kids. This 20-second timer will enforce that they lather up for the correct amount of time.

Best Magnetic Calendar
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Best Magnetic Calendar

Dowling Magnets Giant Magnetic Calendar Set ($35)

This calendar attaches right to your whiteboard and features a dry-erasable month grid so you can keep track of holidays and birthdays in the classroom year after year. It includes 94 magnets for endless customization.

Best Blunt-Tip Scissors
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Best Blunt-Tip Scissors

up & up™ 2ct Kids' Scissors Blunt Tip ($1)

No teacher can never have enough blunt-tip scissors for craft time. The small size is perfect for little hands.

Best Glue Sticks
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Best Glue Sticks

Elmer's 6pk Washable School Glue Sticks ($3)

Glue sticks are another essential that no classroom is complete without. This pack is best for school because it's purple when first applied, so it's easy to see but ultimately dries clear.

Best Chalkboard Pencils
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Best Chalkboard Pencils

U Brands Chalkboard Colored Pencils ($4)

These chalkboard pencils make it possible to write on a chalkboard without getting chalk all over your hands. They allow for smooth and precise writing and come in a pack of six colors.

Best Supply Caddy
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Best Supply Caddy

up & up™ 6-Cup Caddy ($4)

This supply caddy separates markers, pens, pencils, or really anything you need stored. The handle is a great touch to prevent classroom chaos.