Classroom Materials

It sure seems like I've bought all but the curriculum books, but no.

When I started I got all the "hand-me-downs" from others and each grade level does have a supply budget. As you teach though you'll want "extras" or newer, nicer things and that's where the $ are. Be careful not to purchase too many "extras" in the beginning as your grade level may change from 1st to 6th and many items won't be of use. Teachers are great sharers and scavengers....before buying ask if anyone has it. 

The answer may well depend on what country you are in, what the usual practice is in that state or province--or even the school's own policy. My own ( NZ ) experience is that all curriculum materials are provided to each teacher. Actual "stuff"-- paper, paint, Maths gear etc etc is part of the particular subject area. Like almost all primary teachers you will tend to be a "magpie"-- acquiring all sorts of "useful" objects as you build up your own resources. Some you will buy just to get them when you want them. Colleagues, in our school, are great sharers of knowledge, techniques and materials. Have fun.

Yes. That´s true.

I received my classroom set of books with a teacher edition for each.  A small budget for paper, markers, pencils and pens.   I made many of my posters.  Students helped me to make vocabulary cards and decorations for bulletin boards.  I was given a small math kit with cubes and rulers that were poorly made and then I started shopping.  Later, I received 4 classroom computers, two of which I can't get to work, they look really pretty in the corner.  We work on the other two daily.  Much of the software is provided by the school district which is wonderful.  My classroom library and class sets of literature books were the most expensive things to purchase, most were second hand.  These have proven to be the most valuble.  I have begged for and borrowed things I cannot afford to buy.  Over three years and considerable debt, I now have a nice classroom with all of the things that are needed - and a long wish list!

It totally depends on the school you are working at. Schools does supply curriculum books and textbooks, but all the extra materials you need depends on the budget of your school. I am spending a lot of money on supplies specially now that I teach kindergarten. My advise to you would be to ask your principal if there is money set aside for materials for teachers.

Not necessarily. Every school has its own standards and methods. If you want to introduce something unique, I think, nobody should object it.