United Way volunteers brought supplies into two schools Friday as teachers in Dallas ISD prepare to return to class. Teachers will return Monday, and "Stock the Schools" events were set up at Russell Elementary and West Dallas STEM School.
The United Way says volunteers from Texas Instruments, PepsiCo, Contran, Bank of America and Mr. Cooper Group helped load in supplies, furniture and decorations. Dallas ISD's first day of class is August 12; teachers return to classrooms Monday.
"They're going to walk into these buildings really delighted and surprised because all those tasks like putting together shelves and tables will have been done for them," says Susan Hoff, chief strategy and impact officer of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. "It's almost like some magic fairy dust happened over the weekend. They're going to walk in like, 'Wow, I'm ready to go,' so they can get prepared for the kids in another week."
Hoff says this can give teachers time to focus on lesson plans for the last week before students arrive.
"Getting schools ready for kids is a critical piece of getting kids ready for school success," she says. "That's what 'Stock the School' is all about."
Hoff says the average teacher in Texas spends $935 of their own money on decorations and supplies for their classroom. A 2021 report by the Department of Education showed 94% of public school teachers reported spending their own money on school supplies.
"The number one reason they say they spend their money like that, their hard-earned money, is because they are so committed to their students," Hoff says.
Hoff also says a more inviting school with fresh paint, working equipment and teachers who "look happy" can make students feel more welcomed and dedicated their work.
"It is self-interest in many ways that we want our kids to succeed, not only our own personal children but everybody's kids," she says. "That's our future. It sounds a little trite to say, but it absolutely is the truth."
United Way of Metropolitan Dallas' "Stock the School" events were Friday, but the organization is still taking donations of supplies included on teachers' wish lists. More information is available at https://unitedwaydallas.vomo.org/opportunity/stock-the-school-supply-wish-list2025.