Versions of this article were also published on Fox 17, WILX 10, and WLSN 6 on August 16, 2022.
LANSING, Mich. — As teachers prepare their classrooms for school later this month, educators are encouraged to submit their Amazon wish lists by Labor Day, September 5, for a chance to have their list purchased through a new ‘Clear the List’ campaign.
Every year, teachers share their Amazon wish lists with friends and family, and through social media. To help ensure Michigan classrooms are prepared with resources to give teachers and students the best possible start to the year, Michigan Virtual has launched a ‘Clear the List’ campaign. When educators are better equipped for the new school year, outcomes improve for learners. In addition to collecting Michigan educator lists, the campaign website will link to all submitted wish lists for the public to contribute to as well.
“In the wake of the massive disruptions caused by COVID-19, we have an opportunity to take a step back and dream about what might be possible in education if we all work together,” said Jamey Fitzpatrick, president and CEO of Michigan Virtual. “Innovation in education is only possible when the right resources are available for our educators and students. Clearing Michigan teacher lists is one of the easiest things we can do to help make that possible.”
Teachers are no exception to the impact of rising school supply costs and inflation, with many across the state turning to their own bank accounts and community support to prepare their classrooms. According to a report from AdoptaClassroom.org, teachers spend on average $750 of their own money each year on classroom supplies.
For the past two decades, Michigan Virtual has helped teachers across the state through professional development opportunities. In addition, for the last few years, a ‘Clear the List’ movement has swept across the nation. This year, Michigan Virtual has decided to expand its efforts to help educators by bringing a ‘Clear the List’ campaign to Michigan by purchasing items on teachers’ wish lists across the state.
Michigan teachers have until Monday, September 5, 2022, to submit their Amazon wish list at MichiganVirtual.org/ClearTheList. All submitted wish lists will also be available on that website throughout the school year for other community members to contribute to.
