Teacher Supply Depot offers Knox County Teachers free materials

The Teacher Supply Depot is a unique way for the community and local businesses to partner with the school system to provide material support to the classroom teacher. Since its inception, many businesses and community members have stepped forward to donate materials, money and time to the depot. These educators have taken more than $1,000,000 worth of classroom materials and equipment back to their schools since the Depot opened in January 2001.

The depot, located at 232 Churchwell Avenue in Knoxville, is a cooperative venture of Knox County Schools, the Knox County Council PTA, Knox County Government, the Knox County Education Association, Goodwill Industries and the Chamber Partnership.

The Depot is open four times each school year to give teachers an opportunity to replenish supplies they need for the classroom. Donations can be delivered to the Depot Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Note: No children or spouses are allowed in the Depot area. Please wear your school ID or bring some other form of identification.

Teacher Supply Depot needs your surplus supplies

Teachers traditionally invest as much as $500-$700 of their personal funds each year for supplies in their classrooms.  Often basic tools for learning are lacking -- pens, pencils, paper, as well as art and other supplies .While materials may not be available in schools, businesses routinely discard surplus office supplies, art materials, containers, binders, books, desks, office equipment, chairs, and more. 

Discarded items are costly to businesses and fill our landfills needlessly.  These discarded items can be used by our teachers! The Teacher Supply Depot is a clearinghouse for donated surplus materials that can be used in classrooms.  The Knox County School System, Knox County Council PTA, KCEA, Goodwill, the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership, and Knox County Solid Waste are pleased to announce the operation of this project to support the creative efforts of our teachers throughout the school system.The Teacher Supply Depot accepts tax-deductible donations, and is in continual need of supplies to stock the Depot.  To donate items, or for more information contact Knox County Schools Office of Public Affairs - 594-1908 .

Here are some ideas of items you can donate.  If it's not listed here, but you think it might be usable, call the Teacher Supply Depot (594-1221) before discarding it.  Remember, your donation is tax-deductible!