Free classroom supply store has supported 5,886 educators through more than 16,700 teacher shopping visits since 2022
RALEIGH, N.C. — WakeEd Partnership (WakeEd) announced today that its free classroom supply store, Tools4Schools, has surpassed a major milestone, distributing more than $2 million in new classroom supplies to Wake County Public School teachers since opening in January 2022.
Since opening in 2022, Tools4Schools has supported 5,886 unique Wake County educators, with teachers returning again and again—accounting for more than 16,700 shopping visits for free classroom supplies.
Tools4Schools was created to support educators who routinely spend hundreds—often thousands—of dollars out of pocket each year to provide basic classroom supplies for their students. Since its launch, thousands of Wake County teachers representing every public school in the district have shopped at the store.
“When we launched Tools4Schools, our goal was simple—make sure teachers didn’t have to spend their own money on basic supplies for their classrooms,” said Keith Poston, President of WakeEd Partnership. “The fact that educators continue to rely on this resource year after year shows both the scale of the need and the power of this community stepping up for teachers.”
Wake County teachers report spending more than $900 a year out of their own pockets on classroom supplies. Tools4Schools helps offset those costs by providing essential items at no cost to educators, allowing them to focus resources where they matter most—supporting students.
In January 2024, WakeEd relocated Tools4Schools from Cary to a more central location at 1816 Capital Boulevard in Raleigh, improving access for teachers across the county—particularly those serving schools with the greatest need. The new location has helped drive a significant increase in teacher participation and supplies distributed.
“The demand has only grown,” Poston added. “While we wish a program like Tools4Schools wasn’t necessary, the reality is that teachers and students can’t wait for long-term policy solutions. Until classrooms are fully funded, we’re committed to mobilizing the community to support educators right now.”
To help prepare for the upcoming school year, WakeEd Partnership will host its annual Tools4Schools Community Supply Drive this summer. Donations of funds and classroom supplies are accepted year-round, with summer being a critical time to restock shelves before teachers return in the fall.
How to Support Tools4Schools
Make a cash donation. All gifts are tax-deductible.
Donate online HERE (https://wakeed.kindful.com/?campaign=1131262)
or mail checks to:
WakeEd Partnership
1816 Capital Blvd.
Raleigh, NC 27604
(Please include Tools4Schools in the memo line.)
Donate classroom supplies.
WakeEd accepts new and gently used classroom supplies year-round. A list of most-requested items is available online at https://www.wakeed.org/tools4schools/ Large deliveries should be coordinated at Tools4Schools@wakeed.org
Shop the Tools4Schools Amazon Wish List.
Purchase teacher-requested items and ship directly to Tools4Schools through our Amazon Wish List of what is most needed right now. Amazon Wish List here https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/AUCFMA948I5X/ref=hz_ls_biz_ex
Host a supply drive.
Businesses, civic groups, and community organizations can host supply drives throughout the year. Toolkits and registration information are available online at https://www.wakeed.org/supply-drive/
Volunteer at Tools4Schools.
Volunteers are needed to stock shelves, assist teachers, and sort donations. Individuals and groups can sign up on our web site through Activate Good https://www.wakeed.org/volunteer/
For information about corporate sponsorships and other giving opportunities, contact development@wakeed.org.
About WakeEd Partnership
WakeEd Partnership (WakeEd) is a business-backed nonprofit dedicated to supporting the teachers, students, and families of Wake County Public Schools. Founded in 1983, WakeEd works to mobilize the community, support classrooms, and champion strong public schools for all students. Learn more at www.wakeed.org