It’s back-to-school season, and that means back-to-school deals for all the students out there. If you’re a student, you might even snag an awesome discount on things like laptops, software and other tech. But what about teachers?
Students and their discounts get so much attention this time of year that educators — on the other end of the spectrum — tend to get overlooked. As someone with many teacher friends, who’s seen the time and effort they sacrifice for others’ children, I think every one of them deserve a few breaks. Upwards of 100+ major retailers and countless businesses think so, too.
Besides the extra special “Teacher Appreciation Week” held in May, teacher discounts apply all year round whether you’re a K-12 educator or university professor. Take a look at some of these discounts and deals you’re entitled to. Do any surprise you?
Retail and Other Business Discounts and Deals
The following retailers and businesses offer 10 to 15% discounts on either everything or at least classroom-related categories, rebates, rewards points after joining free teacher rewards programs, discounted or free admission, and even deals on insurance. Most require a teacher ID or email account and allow you to use a personal debit or credit card. A handful only offer discounts with a school-issued account card. Here are some of the major participants.
- Arts/Crafts/Supplies: Office Depot, Office Max, Staples, Joann Fabrics, Michaels, Hobby Lobby
- Books/Magazines/Media/Mobile/ Electronics: Barnes & Noble and many other smaller bookstore chains, PBS’s LearningMedia program (loads of free educational videos, games and teaching materials), the New York Times and National Geographic (discounted subscriptions), Bose music systems, most mobile phone providers (even personal plans), Adobe, Lenovo, Dell, Sony, Apple
- Clothing:(Yes, that’s right) Loft, Limited, Aerosoles, New York & Company, J Crew, Eddie Bauer, Banana Republic, Talbots, Easy Spirit, C. J. Banks
- Hotels/Parks/Venues: Marriott chain of hotels, Sea World, the National Park Service, Kennedy Space Center (only Florida/Georgia residents), Legoland, other zoos, museums, concert halls and cultural centers
- Insurance Deals:Farmers Insurance, Geico, Liberty Mutual (offers a $0 deductible for members who experience damages on school property from school-related activities), others
Local Discounts
Not only are major retailers kind to educators, smaller organizations and businesses often have their own programs and discounts for locals. Even if there’s nothing official, small businesses might be willing to offer a discount to those who ask.
NEA and Other Memberships
The NEA (National Education Association) is an example of an educator alliance that provides exclusive discounts and deals to teachers who join — everything from financial services to travel. Others include the AFT (American Federation of Teachers) and the NSTA (National Substitute Teachers Alliance). Joining one of these groups could provide valuable resources in addition to discounts.
As an educator who spends a lot of time and effort in the classroom, you shouldn’t have to spend your own money on school supplies — but most do. At least with these teacher discounts, you’ll save a little in the process, and even enjoy a few breaks on personal expenses.
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