Prepare for the upcoming academic year with the HCPSS School Supply List 2024-2025, meticulously curated to empower students with the essential tools for success. Each grade level’s list is a comprehensive guide, providing a clear outline of the necessary materials to ensure a productive and engaging learning experience. From pencils to notebooks, from backpacks to calculators, every item serves a specific purpose in fostering students’ academic growth and development.
The HCPSS School Supply List is not merely a checklist; it is a roadmap to educational excellence. By providing parents and students with a precise understanding of the required supplies, the list enables them to make informed decisions about the best way to support their learning journey. Whether it’s the high-quality paper for composition notebooks or the ergonomic pencils for extended writing sessions, each item is carefully chosen to optimize students’ comfort, productivity, and overall success.
Furthermore, the HCPSS School Supply List is a testament to the district’s unwavering commitment to equity and accessibility. By providing a clear and comprehensive list, HCPSS ensures that all students, regardless of their background or circumstances, have the resources they need to thrive academically. The list empowers parents to budget effectively and make informed choices that will contribute to their children’s educational success. It is a vital tool in the district’s mission to create a level playing field for all learners and foster a culture of academic achievement.
Required Materials for All Grade Levels
Essential Writing Materials
Every student in the Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) for the 2024-2025 school year is required to have the following essential writing materials:
- Pencils: A sufficient supply of sharpened pencils with erasers, both #2 and mechanical pencils
- Pens: A variety of pens, including blue or black ink pens for writing assignments, and red pens for editing
- Markers: Fine-tipped permanent markers in various colors
- Highlighters: Yellow, pink, and green highlighters
- Eraser: A large pink eraser for erasing pencil marks, and a retractable eraser for pens
- Pencil sharpener: A hand-held or electric pencil sharpener
- Ruler: A 12-inch ruler with both inches and centimeters
- Protractor: A 180-degree protractor
- Graph paper: A pad of 1/4-inch graph paper
- Notebooks: Spiral notebooks (college-ruled or wide-ruled) for taking notes
| Grade Level | Number of Notebooks |
|---|---|
| Elementary School | 2 |
| Middle School | 3 |
| High School | 4 |
Supplies for Specific Grade Levels
Students attending schools within the Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) will need to procure specific supplies based on their grade level. The following sections outline the essential items required for each grade.
Grade 6
In addition to the general supplies listed above, 6th-grade students will require:
– 1 Trapper Keeper or 3-ring binder (1 ½ – 2 inches)
– 1 Composition notebook (wide ruled)
– 2 Red pens
– 1 Blue pen
– 2 Highlighters (different colors)
– 1 Calculator (with square root function)
– 1 Protractor
– 1 Compass
– 1 Ruler (12 inches)
Grade 7
7th-grade students will need the following additional supplies:
– 1 Trapper Keeper or 3-ring binder (2 inches)
– 5 Composition notebooks (wide ruled)
– 1 Pack of index cards
– 1 Red pen
– 2 Blue pens
– 3 Highlighters (different colors)
– 1 Calculator (with scientific functions)
– 1 Protractor
– 1 Compass
– 1 Ruler (12 inches)
Grade 8
8th-grade students will require:
– 2 Trapper Keepers or 3-ring binders (2 inches)
– 5 Composition notebooks (wide ruled)
– 2 Packs of index cards
– 1 Red pen
– 2 Blue pens
– 4 Highlighters (different colors)
– 1 Calculator (with graphing capabilities)
– 1 Protractor
– 1 Compass
– 1 Ruler (12 inches)
Technology Requirements
Devices
All students in grades 3-12 will be assigned a Chromebook for use at school and at home. These Chromebooks are provided by HCPS and are filtered and managed by the school system. Students are responsible for the care and maintenance of their assigned Chromebooks.
Software
Students will have access to a variety of software applications on their Chromebooks and school computers, including:
- Google Workspace (including Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides)
- Microsoft Office 365 (including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel)
- i-Ready
- Khan Academy
- Newsela
- BrainPop
- Schoology
Hardware
In addition to their Chromebooks, students may also need the following hardware:
- Headphones or earbuds
- Webcam (for virtual meetings)
- External keyboard or mouse (optional)
Students should bring their own headphones or earbuds to school. Headphones or earbuds are not provided by HCPS.
Webcams are not required for all students, but they are recommended for students who participate in virtual meetings or who need to record videos for assignments.
External keyboards and mice are not required, but they can be helpful for students who prefer to use a traditional keyboard and mouse setup.
| Grade | Headphones/Earbuds | Webcam | External Keyboard/Mouse |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-5 | Required | Optional | Optional |
| 6-8 | Required | Recommended | Optional |
| 9-12 | Required | Optional | Optional |
Personalized Supply Lists
HCPS has implemented a personalized supply list system to ensure that students receive the specific supplies they need for their classes. The system uses a combination of student schedule and teacher recommendations to generate a customized list of supplies for each student.
How to Access Personalized Supply Lists
Parents and students can access personalized supply lists through the HCPS Parent Portal. To access the portal, parents will need to create an account if they do not already have one. Once logged in, parents can view their child’s schedule and click on the “Supply List” tab to view the personalized list.
Additional Supply Requirements
In addition to the personalized supply list, students may need additional supplies based on their specific courses or extracurricular activities. These additional supplies may include items such as:
- Paper towels
- Tissues
- Hand sanitizer
- Sports uniforms
- Musical instruments
Bulk Purchases and Donations
To save money on school supplies, parents can consider purchasing items in bulk or donating supplies to their child’s school. Bulk purchases can be made through online retailers or local stores. Many schools also have a “backpack blessing” program where parents can donate school supplies to children in need.
| Grade Level | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Elementary School (K-5) | 15-20 |
| Middle School (6-8) | 20-25 |
| High School (9-12) | 25-30 |
By following these steps and taking advantage of bulk purchases and donation opportunities, parents can help their children get the supplies they need for a successful school year.
Purchase Recommendations
When purchasing school supplies, consider the following recommendations:
1. Prioritize Essential Items
Essential items like pencils, paper, and notebooks should be the first priority. Ensure you have a sufficient supply for the entire school year.
2. Check the School Supply List
Refer to the school-provided supply list to avoid purchasing unnecessary items. This list typically includes specific requirements for each grade level.
3. Choose Quality Over Quantity
Invest in quality supplies that will last longer and provide better functionality. Cheap supplies may break or wear out quickly, costing more in the long run.
4. Consider Reusable Options
Reusable items like pencil sharpeners, containers, and backpacks can save money and reduce waste. Encourage students to bring these items from home if possible.
5. Explore Range of Price Options
School supplies come in a wide range of prices. Compare prices from multiple stores and consider generic or bulk options to save money. However, avoid sacrificing quality for low prices.
| Store | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Target | $10-$50 |
| Walmart | $5-$25 |
| Office Depot | $15-$75 |
Affordable Options
For those seeking budget-friendly options, here are some tips and resources:
6. Take Advantage of Back-to-School Sales
Take advantage of the numerous back-to-school sales offered by major retailers and office supply stores. These sales typically offer significant discounts on essential school supplies, such as notebooks, pens, pencils, and binders. Additionally, consider visiting discount stores like Dollar Tree or Five Below, which often have a wide selection of school supplies at affordable prices.
To make the most of these sales, plan ahead. Create a list of the supplies you need and set a budget. Be flexible and willing to substitute name brands for generic options or consider purchasing used supplies in good condition.
| A HCPSS Student Card | A HCPSS student card gives the student discounts at local stores like Target, Walmart, and Staples. |
|---|---|
| Thrift Stores | Thrift stores are a great place to find gently used school supplies at a fraction of the cost of new ones. |
Sustainable and Reusable Supplies
Encourage the use of sustainable and reusable supplies to promote environmental consciousness and reduce waste. Some eco-friendly options include:
Paper Goods
Opt for recycled or sustainable paper products, such as notebooks, loose-leaf paper, and paper towels.
Containers
Use reusable containers for lunch, snacks, and pencils instead of disposable plastic bags or containers.
Art Supplies
Encourage the use of non-toxic art supplies, such as crayons made from soy or beeswax, and watercolors with natural dyes.
Office Supplies
Consider using refillable pens, highlighters, and markers instead of disposable ones.
Electronics
Opt for energy-efficient devices, such as rechargeable batteries and laptops with long battery life.
Clothing
Promote the use of durable and reusable clothing items, such as backpacks, uniforms, and lunch bags, that can withstand everyday use and reduce waste.
Online Learning Resources
Utilize digital resources, such as online textbooks and educational apps, to minimize paper consumption and promote sustainable practices.
| Sustainable Products | Reusable Products |
|---|---|
| Recycled paper | Reusable containers |
| Non-toxic art supplies | Refillable pens |
| Energy-efficient devices | Durable backpacks |
| Digital resources | Reusable lunch bags |
Additional Resources for Students
Online Learning Resources
Students can access a variety of online learning resources to supplement their coursework, including:
- Khan Academy: Provides free video tutorials and practice exercises on a wide range of subjects.
- Crash Course: Offers engaging video courses on subjects like history, literature, and science.
- Coursera: Provides online courses from top universities and organizations, many of which are free or low-cost.
Tutoring Services
Students who need extra help or support can access tutoring services through:
- HCPS Learning Centers: Located in select schools and offer free tutoring assistance in core subjects.
- Community Colleges: Offer evening and weekend tutoring services, often at a nominal cost.
- Private Tutoring: Students can hire private tutors through local businesses or online platforms.
Clubs and Activities
HCPS offers a wide range of clubs and activities that can provide students with opportunities for enrichment, leadership, and social connections. Some popular options include:
| Club/Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| National Honor Society | Recognizes and rewards academic excellence and leadership. |
| Student Government Association | Provides students with a voice in school affairs and organizes student events. |
| Science Olympiad | Promotes student interest in STEM fields through competitive events. |
| Robotics | Engages students in the design, construction, and operation of robots. |
| Music and Drama | Provides opportunities for students to develop their artistic talents and perform in ensembles and productions. |
Mental Health and Wellness Resources
HCPS provides a range of mental health and wellness resources to support students’ emotional and social well-being, including:
- School Counselors: Provide confidential counseling and support to students.
- Crisis Support: Offers immediate support to students experiencing mental health emergencies.
- Project LETS (Life Education Teams for Students): Empower students to be agents of change in promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma.
Support for Families
HCPS recognizes that the cost of school supplies can be a burden for families. To help offset this expense, the district offers a variety of support programs.
Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Program
Families who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch are also eligible for free school supplies.
Supply Closets
Many HCPS schools have supply closets that provide basic school supplies to students in need.
Community Partnerships
HCPS partners with local businesses and organizations to provide school supplies to students in need. These partnerships include:
- United Way of Central Maryland
- The Salvation Army
- The Baltimore City Public Schools
Online Resources
HCPS provides a variety of online resources to help families find affordable school supplies. These resources include:
- The HCPS School Supply List
- The HCPS School Supply Calculator
- The HCPS School Supply Assistance Program
Other Programs
In addition to the programs listed above, HCPS also offers a variety of other programs to help families with the cost of school supplies. These programs include:
- The HCPS School Supply Drive
- The HCPS School Supply Scholarship
- The HCPS School Supply Tax Credit
| Program | Description | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| HCPS School Supply Drive | Collects and distributes school supplies to students in need | All families are eligible |
| HCPS School Supply Scholarship | Provides financial assistance to families who cannot afford to purchase school supplies | Families must meet certain income guidelines |
| HCPS School Supply Tax Credit | Allows individuals and businesses to claim a tax credit for donating school supplies to HCPS | All individuals and businesses are eligible |
Contact Information for Inquiries
For any questions or concerns regarding the 2024-2025 school year supply list for Howard County Public School System (HCPSS), please contact the appropriate individuals or departments listed below:
School Administration
Contact the main office of the specific school your child will be attending for assistance with general supply list inquiries, such as specific items required for each grade level.
HCPSS Central Office
Contact the HCPSS Central Office at 410-313-7313 for any system-wide questions or clarifications related to the supply list.
Parent and Community Engagement Office
Reach out to the Parent and Community Engagement Office at 410-313-7907 for questions pertaining to parent resources, support, and involvement.
School Counselors
School counselors can provide guidance to students and families on appropriate school supplies for individual needs and academic success.
Teachers
Teachers can provide specific information on the supplies required for their individual classrooms and subjects.
School Supply Lists Website
Visit the HCPSS website dedicated to school supply lists for the most up-to-date information and downloadable lists.
School Board Members
Contact your local school board member for any questions or concerns that cannot be resolved through the other channels.
Social Media
Follow HCPSS on social media platforms such as Twitter (@HCPSS) and Facebook (HCPSS) for updates and announcements related to school supplies.
Send an email to hcpss.supplies@hcpss.org for general inquiries and clarifications.
| Contact Method | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Phone | 410-313-7313 |
| hcpss.supplies@hcpss.org | |
| Website | [HCPSS School Supply Lists Website Link] |
| Social Media |
Twitter |
HCPSS School Supply List 2024-2025: A Balanced Perspective
The release of the HCPSS school supply list for 2024-2025 has garnered mixed reactions among the school community. Parents and students alike have expressed both positive and negative views regarding the list’s contents. While some appreciate the comprehensiveness and guidance it provides, others have raised concerns about its excessiveness and potential financial burden.
Proponents of the school supply list argue that it ensures all students have the necessary materials to succeed academically. By providing a detailed inventory of required items, the list eliminates any confusion or uncertainty about what supplies each student needs. This can be particularly beneficial for families who are unfamiliar with the HCPSS curriculum or who have limited resources. Additionally, some believe that the list promotes equity by ensuring that all students have access to the same basic materials, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
However, critics of the school supply list contend that it places an undue financial burden on families. The cost of purchasing all the required supplies can add up quickly, especially for families with multiple children. They argue that the school system should provide more financial assistance to low-income families or consider reducing the list’s requirements. Additionally, some parents express concerns that the list encourages consumerism and discourages sustainability. They argue that students should be encouraged to reuse or share supplies whenever possible, rather than being required to purchase new items each year.
Overall, the HCPSS school supply list for 2024-2025 is a complex issue with both benefits and drawbacks. It is important for the school system to balance the need for adequate supplies with the concerns of affordability and environmental sustainability. By considering the perspectives of all stakeholders, HCPSS can develop a school supply policy that meets the educational needs of students while minimizing the financial and environmental impact on families.
People Also Ask
When is the deadline to purchase school supplies?
The deadline to purchase school supplies is typically determined by the individual school. Contact your child’s school for specific information.
Where can I find the school supply list for my specific school?
The school supply list for each school is available on the HCPSS website. Visit the website and select your child’s school to access the list.
Are there any financial assistance programs available to help with the cost of school supplies?
Yes, there are several financial assistance programs available to help families with the cost of school supplies. Contact your child’s school or the HCPSS Department of Student Services for more information.
What should I do if I have questions or concerns about the school supply list?
If you have any questions or concerns about the school supply list, contact your child’s school. The school staff will be able to provide more information and support.
