10 Must-Have School Supplies for BISD Students in 2024-2025

$subtitle$
$title$

The 2024-2025 school year is quickly approaching, and it’s time to start thinking about school supplies. The BISD school supply list has been released, and it includes everything your child will need to succeed in the upcoming school year. From pencils and paper to backpacks and calculators, the list has everything your child needs to be prepared for success.

One of the most important items on the list is a backpack. A good backpack will help your child stay organized and protect their belongings. When choosing a backpack, look for one that is durable and has multiple compartments. This will help your child keep their supplies organized and easy to find. You should also make sure the backpack is the right size for your child. A backpack that is too big or too small can be uncomfortable to wear and can make it difficult for your child to carry their supplies.

In addition to a backpack, your child will also need a variety of other supplies, such as pencils, paper, pens, highlighters, and notebooks. The specific supplies your child needs will vary depending on their grade level and the classes they are taking. However, there are some general supplies that all students will need, such as pencils, paper, and pens. Make sure your child has a sufficient supply of these essential items so that they can be prepared for the first day of school.

Essential Supplies for a Successful School Year

Essential School Supplies

The cornerstone of a productive learning environment lies in preparedness, and one of the most fundamental aspects of preparation is having the necessary school supplies. As the academic year 2024-2025 approaches, it is crucial to equip students with the essential tools that will empower them to excel in their studies. To ensure a seamless and successful school year, the following supplies are deemed indispensable:

Writing and Note-Taking Materials

Pencils: Number 2 pencils are the standard for written assignments and standardized tests. Ensure that students have a sufficient supply to last throughout the year.
Pens: Blue or black pens are typically preferred for writing in notebooks, taking notes, and completing worksheets. Encourage students to keep several pens on hand.
Notebooks: Notebooks provide a dedicated space for students to organize and record their learning. Spiral-bound notebooks are commonly used, as they allow for easy removal of individual pages.
Highlighters: Highlighters enable students to visually enhance important text and notes, improving their ability to retain information.
Erasers: To correct mistakes or make changes, quality erasers are essential for maintaining neat and tidy work.
Pencil sharpener: A reliable pencil sharpener is crucial for keeping pencils writing smoothly.

Grade	Required Supplies
Kindergarten	Pencils, crayons, scissors, glue, paper
Elementary School	Pencils, pens, notebooks, highlighters, erasers, pencil sharpener
Middle School	Pens, notebooks, binders, dividers, highlighters, calculators
High School	Pens, notebooks, binders, dividers, highlighters, calculators, scientific calculator (for science classes)

Grade-Specific School Supply Requirements

Elementary School

Kindergartners will need:

Backpack
Change of clothes
Indoor shoes
Lunchbox
Water bottle
Pencils
Crayons
Scissors
Glue stick
Construction paper
Notebook
Folder
Hand sanitizer
Tissues

Middle School

Sixth-graders will need:

Backpack
Binder
Dividers
Notebook paper
Pens
Pencils
Highlighters
Calculator
Protractor
Compass
Ruler
Science notebook
Art supplies
Physical education uniform
Lunchbox
Water bottle
Hand sanitizer
Tissues

High School

Ninth-graders will need:

Backpack
Binder
Dividers
Notebook paper
Pens
Pencils
Highlighters
Calculator
Graph paper
Engineering notebook
Art supplies
Physical education uniform
Lunchbox
Water bottle
Hand sanitizer
Tissues

Itemized List for Elementary Schoolers

For elementary schoolers, the supply list for the 2024-2025 school year is as follows:

Backpack

A sturdy backpack is essential for carrying all of your child’s school supplies. Choose a backpack with multiple compartments and comfortable straps. Some schools have specific requirements for backpack size, color and style, so be sure to check with your school before purchasing one.

Lunchbox

A durable lunchbox is important for keeping your child’s lunch fresh and organized. Choose a lunchbox with insulation to keep the food cold or warm. Make sure it is easy for your child to open and close.

Pencils and Erasers

Pencils are a must-have for writing and drawing. Choose pencils with a medium point (HB or #2) for general use. Erasers are also important for correcting mistakes. A pencil sharpener is also a good idea.

Quantity	Item
12	Pencils
3	Erasers
1	Pencil sharpener

Crayons and Markers

Crayons and markers are essential for art activities. Choose a set of crayons with a variety of colors. Washables markers are a good option for young children, as they are less likely to stain clothing or furniture.

Quantity	Item
24	Crayons
12	Markers (Washable)

Comprehensive Supply List for Middle Schoolers

Backpacks

Sturdy backpacks designed to withstand the wear and tear of middle school can accommodate a laptop, binders, textbooks, and other essentials. Choose backpacks with multiple compartments for organization and adjustable shoulder straps for comfort,

Notebooks

Multiple subjects require specific notebooks for efficient note-taking. Consider notebooks with college-ruled or graph paper, a hardcover or durable spiral binding, and ample pages (100-150) for each subject,

Binders

Binders help keep loose papers, worksheets, and handouts organized. Choose binders with sturdy construction, multiple rings (1-2 inches), and clear pockets or sleeves for easy referencing of class materials,

Writing Instruments

High-quality writing instruments play a crucial role in note-taking, essay writing, and assignments. Include:

Item	Quantity	Features
Pens	10-15	Blue or black ink, fine or medium point
Pencils	5-10	HB or #2 graphite, pre-sharpened or with sharpener
Highlighters	3-5	Different colors for emphasis and annotation
Erasers	2-3	Polymer or vinyl for clean erasing

High School Students’ Essential Materials

Required Items

All high school students will need the following basic supplies for the 2024-2025 school year:

Pens (black, blue, red)
Pencils
Paper (loose-leaf, notebook)
Binder or folder
Calculator

Subject-Specific Supplies

In addition to the general supplies listed above, students may need additional materials for specific subjects:

Math: Compass, protractor, graphing paper
Science: Safety goggles, lab coat, dissection kit
Art: Sketchbook, drawing pencils, paintbrushes

li>Music: Instrument, sheet music

Technology

BISD recommends that all high school students have access to a laptop or tablet for schoolwork:

Students who do not have their own device may be able to borrow one from the school.
All BISD schools have Wi-Fi access.

Organization

Good organizational skills are essential for success in high school. Students should have:

A backpack or bookbag to carry their supplies
A planner or agenda to keep track of assignments and due dates

Other Supplies

Depending on their individual needs, students may also find the following supplies helpful:

Highlighters
Sticky notes
Flash drive
Water bottle
Hand sanitizer

Subject	Required Supplies
Algebra 1	Textbook, notebook, pen, pencil, calculator
Biology	Textbook, notebook, pen, pencil, ruler, safety goggles, lab coat

Technology Devices Required for All Grade Levels

Devices for Students in Grades 6-12

Students in grades 6-12 must bring their own laptops or tablets to school each day. These devices must meet the following minimum specifications:

Operating System: Windows 10 or higher, macOS Catalina or higher, or Chrome OS
Processor: Intel Core i3 or higher, AMD Ryzen 3 or higher
RAM: 8GB or higher
Storage: 256GB SSD or higher
Screen Size: 13 inches or larger
Portability: Device should be easily carried in a backpack

Additional Device Requirements for Grades 6-12

In addition to the general specifications listed above, students in grades 6-12 may also need specific software or accessories for their classes. These additional requirements may include:

Headphones or earbuds with microphone
Webcam with built-in microphone
Digital stylus or pen for touch-screen devices
External keyboard and mouse (optional)
Specific software applications as assigned by teachers

Donation Options for Underprivileged Students

The Bismarck Public School District understands the financial burden school supplies can place on families, especially those in underserved communities. To ensure all students have access to the materials they need, BISD offers several donation programs:

Community Donations

Community members, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to donate new or gently used school supplies to BISD schools. Donations can be dropped off at any school during regular business hours.

School-Specific Drives

Many BISD schools organize school-wide supply drives throughout the year. Parents and guardians are notified of these drives and encouraged to participate.

Online Wish Lists

Some BISD schools have created online wish lists on platforms like AmazonSmile. Community members can purchase supplies directly from these lists and have them shipped to the school.

Supply Backpack Program

BISD partners with local organizations to provide backpacks filled with essential school supplies to students in need. Backpacks are distributed at the beginning of the school year.

School Supply Drives by Local Businesses

Local businesses, such as office supply stores and retail chains, often host school supply drives during the summer months. BISD schools are notified of these drives and encourage families to participate.

Summer School Supply Fairs

BISD hosts summer school supply fairs where students and families can purchase discounted school supplies. Fairs are held at various locations throughout the district.

Teacher Wishlists

BISD teachers may create individual wishlists for specific supplies they need for their classrooms. Parents and guardians can view these wishlists and donate items accordingly.

Tips for Organizing and Maintaining School Supplies

Keeping school supplies organized and well-maintained can significantly improve a student’s learning experience and make their day-to-day routine easier. Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your child has everything they need for a successful school year:

8. Establish a Designated Storage Area

Creating a specific place for school supplies helps keep them organized and accessible. Establish a well-lit and convenient location for backpacks, lunch bags, binders, and other essential items. Consider using shelves, organizers, or stackable bins to maximize space and keep items tidy.

Additional tips for organizing storage:

Place frequently used items within easy reach.
Consider using drawer dividers to separate different types of supplies.
Label shelves or containers clearly for quick identification.
Encourage daily cleanup to maintain organization.
Use colorful bins and organizers to make it more engaging for younger students.

Sustainable Supply Choices for an Eco-Friendly School Year

Choose Recycled or Sustainable Materials

Opt for notebooks, paper, and folders made from recycled paper or sustainable materials like bamboo or sugarcane. These options reduce deforestation and conserve resources.

Use Refillable Pens and Pencils

Invest in refillable pens and pencils to minimize waste. Refills are readily available and often more cost-effective than disposable writing instruments.

Avoid Plastic Wrap and Baggies

Replace plastic wrap and baggies with reusable food containers, beeswax wraps, or cloth bags. These alternatives are not only eco-friendly but also promote healthier food storage.

Opt for Bamboo Utensils and Straws

Bamboo is a sustainable and durable material that can replace plastic utensils and straws. Bamboo products are biodegradable and decompose naturally.

Use Reusable Water Bottles

Encourage the use of reusable water bottles instead of disposable plastic bottles. This reduces plastic waste and promotes hydration.

Choose Durable Backpacks and Lunch Bags

Invest in durable backpacks and lunch bags made from sturdy and reusable materials. This helps prevent frequent replacements and reduces waste.

Shop Locally and Support Small Businesses

Consider purchasing school supplies locally to reduce transportation emissions and support local businesses. Small businesses often offer eco-friendly options as well.

Educate and Communicate

Inform students, parents, and staff about the importance of sustainable supply choices. Encourage them to adopt eco-friendly practices at home and in the classroom.

Explore Sustainable School Programs

Many schools offer sustainable school programs that encourage students to reduce waste, recycle, and conserve resources. Participate in these programs to promote an eco-friendly school environment.

Additional Tips for Eco-Friendly Classroom Supplies

Material	Sustainable Option
Glue Sticks	Glue sticks made from natural beeswax or starch
Markers	Washable markers with recycled content
Crayons	Crayons made from soy wax or recycled materials
Modeling Clay	Natural modeling clay or playdough
Construction Paper	Construction paper made from recycled or biodegradable materials
Scissors	Scissors with recycled content and durable construction

Online Resources for Finding Affordable School Supplies

With the rising cost of school supplies, it can be challenging to find affordable options for students and parents. Fortunately, there are various online resources that can help you save money on essential items for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year.

1. Amazon Smile

Amazon Smile offers a convenient way to shop for school supplies and support a charity of your choice. A portion of every purchase you make through Amazon Smile is donated to a non-profit organization, ensuring that your shopping can also make a difference.

2. Target Circle

Target Circle is a loyalty program that provides members with access to exclusive discounts, coupons, and rewards. By becoming a member, you can save money on school supplies and other essential items for your family.

3. Walmart+

Walmart+ offers a subscription service that provides unlimited free shipping on eligible items, fuel discounts, and other benefits. With Walmart+, you can save on shipping costs and access exclusive deals on school supplies and other necessities.

4. Overstock.com

Overstock.com is an online retailer that specializes in closeout and overstock merchandise. This can be a great resource for finding school supplies at discounted prices, especially for items that are not typically found at other stores.

5. eBay

eBay is a marketplace where you can find a wide variety of school supplies, both new and used. By bidding on auctions or shopping for Buy It Now items, you can often find great deals on essential items.

6. Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is a platform where you can buy and sell items within your local community. This can be a useful resource for finding gently used school supplies at affordable prices.

7. Freecycle and Buy Nothing Groups

Freecycle and Buy Nothing Groups are online communities where you can exchange items for free or at a low cost. This can be a great way to find school supplies that you need without spending any money.

8. Garage Sales and Thrift Stores

Garage sales and thrift stores are often overlooked sources of affordable school supplies. By browsing through these secondhand venues, you can often find name-brand items at a fraction of the cost.

9. Dollar Stores

Dollar stores are a great place to find basic school supplies at a low price. While the quality may not be as high as more expensive options, dollar stores can be a good way to save money on items like pencils, pens, and notebooks.

10. Tax-Free Shopping Days

Many states offer tax-free shopping days specifically for school supplies. These days typically fall in August or September, so be sure to check your local laws to see if you can save money on your purchases by waiting until the tax-free period.

BISD School Supply List 2024-2025: A Comprehensive Guide

The BISD school supply list for the 2024-2025 academic year has been released, providing detailed information on the necessary materials for students entering grades Pre-K through 12th grade. The list has been compiled to ensure that students are equipped with the essential tools to succeed academically and achieve their full potential.

The supply list includes a wide range of items, including pencils, pens, notebooks, backpacks, and technology devices. Each grade level has its own specific requirements, and parents are encouraged to review the list carefully to ensure that their children have all the necessary materials on the first day of school. By providing students with the necessary supplies, BISD aims to create a positive and conducive learning environment for all.