In recent years, many teachers have resorted to relying on others to help get supplies for their classrooms. Whether it’s through lists provided to families or wish lists on Amazon, many teachers depend on these generous donations. Typically starting in July, the requests begin to flood social media as people race to get teachers everything they need before the new school year starts. And while the lists have been incredibly helpful, it appears that not everyone loves them. A school district in Tennessee has now asked teachers to stop posting them publicly.
Lewis County Schools, a district consisting of four schools that’s about 80 miles outside of Nashville, is requesting that its teachers don’t share the names or logos of the schools — or school district — where they work alongside their classroom wish lists this year.
Tracy McAbee, the district’s director of schools, shared a more detailed explanation in both a Facebook post and on the district’s website. One of the main reasons for the request? Optics. The district doesn’t want it to seem like it is incapable of providing resources for its classrooms.
“I also want to be respectful of the perception created when wish lists are shared publicly. Many donors believe they are giving items that the district refuses to provide,” McAbee wrote. “In truth, we work diligently to provide classrooms with necessary materials and to prioritize spending in ways that benefit all.”
She went on to say that the district is “currently working on creating a more formal and transparent process for classroom donations that allows us to partner with families, businesses, and community members in a responsible way.” McAbee also encouraged those looking to make donations to reach out to the district office or school principals directly.
Tanya Coats, who is president of the Tennessee Education Association, spoke with ABC News about the decision. According to Coats, classroom wish lists are imperative for “filling gaps that districts are not” when it comes to supplies.
“The real issue isn’t these lists, it’s a lack of classroom resources,” Coats explained. “Rather than just stopping teachers from asking for help, let’s focus on why they’re asking for it in the first place.”
While she knows the issue is bigger than one district or even the state of Tennessee, she believes the “community shouldn’t have to just crowdsource crayons or paper.”
