As the new school year gets underway in Florida, a growing number of teachers are being forced to dip into their own pockets to stock their classrooms with basic supplies and materials. Despite a state law requiring schools to provide a "safe and healthy learning environment," many educators are finding that their classrooms are woefully under-equipped, leaving them no choice but to rely on their own funds to fill the gaps. From pens and pencils to textbooks and educational resources, teachers are taking on the financial burden of providing for their students, sparking concerns about the impact on their own finances and the overall quality of education in the state. As the cost of living continues to rise, the burden on teachers is only growing, raising questions about the priorities of the Florida education system.
Florida teachers turn to their own wallets to stock classrooms WUSF