Teachers get an additional $50 back on classroom supplies this year

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.-Teachers are getting a little bit more money back this year.

“Every bit helps,” said North Jackson Elementary teacher Jeana Kinsman. 

For years, teachers could only get $250 back for school or classroom supplies that they purchased out of their own pocket. Now, the IRS has raised that to $300. 

“It’s about time. Actually I think it should be more than that. But I think at least it’s a step in the right direction,” said Hiseville Elementary kindergarten teacher Robin McMurtrey. 

They raised the amount by $50 because of inflation.

“It’s nice to be noticed that, hey teachers are spending more money because things are more expensive than they used to be. So hopefully it will continue to go back up,” said McMurtrey. 

But even so, most teachers spend a lot more than $300 to take care of their students. 

“I spend probably close to $1,000, $2,000 a year,” said McMurtrey. 

Even though they don’t have to spend more than what they’re given, they usually do to give students the best possible experience.

“It’s not uncommon for us to pick up items just on our own just here and there when we’re at the store for our students and the classroom…that’s very very common,” said Kinsman. 

Teachers, principals and counselors- keep the receipts…supplies like these can be deducted!

“Everything from crayons, pencils to glue scissors papers, ink pens, notepads, and hats and all kinds of things that promote whatever we’re learning about,” said McMurtrey.