There is understandably a lot of uncertainty coming up this fall with the return to school. Whether your child(ren) will be returning to in-person or virtual learning, there is still organization, coordination and planning to be done. Families and educators are facing a completely new school year unlike any other and must make challenging decisions for the months ahead. Back-to-school shopping and trying to make sure your student is properly equipped for the school year - whether they are learning from home or attending school in person – should not have to add to it.
We have partnered with Staples Canada to give away FIVE $200 Staples gift cards, so that you can get back-to-school ready. To enter, use the widget below!
Contest rules: Entrants must reside in Canada, excluding Quebec
Here are three ways to make the season a little easier:
Shop online for supplies and check out School Tools from Staples
Staples Canada has simplified the process for parents and teachers alike by offering Staples School Tools. Teachers can register with Staples to create a personalized class list of all the back-to-school supplies their students will need, making ordering super straightforward for families, and getting everything delivered for free right to your door or school.
The guesswork is taken away for parents in purchasing the right materials and quantities, saving valuable time and money. Items are also characterized as either required, suggested or optional to help guide your spending decisions. In addition to the customized class lists selected by participating teachers, there are also grade specific lists curated by Staples to consider. As a bonus, parent councils will be pleased as 3% of every order gets donated back to the school to support fundraising initiatives.
Have a home workspace that works
Even if your child is going back to in-person classes, a workspace at home will be important for making the most of the school year. Check out our blog on creating a designated work zone that aligns with your needs.
Exercise communication and compassion
It is likely to be a confusing time for everyone with many questions about the unknown. If we try our best to be patient, kind and understanding, we will stand the best chance in truly supporting one another.
At Teachers on Call, our team believes in planning ahead to ease back-to-school butterflies, and to make the transition as seamless as possible for students and the adults who love them.
Wishing everyone a smooth back-to-school start!
Related Articles View All
Teachers on Call in the Toronto Star: What Ontario Report Cards Really Mean and How Parents Can Use Them for Summer Success
What do Ontario report cards really mean—and how can parents use them to help kids thrive over the summer? Teachers on Call President & CEO Joanne Sallay shares expert advice in the Toronto Star on decoding report cards and turning them into a powerful tool for summer learning success. From understanding learning skills to setting personalized goals, this guide empowers families to take action now and start September strong.
Doors Open Owen Sound Returns on the Longest Day of the Year: Explore 19 Sites on June 21, 2025
Explore Owen Sound like never before during Doors Open 2025 on June 21, the summer solstice! This free, family-friendly event unlocks 19 historic and cultural sites across the city—from beloved landmarks to exciting new additions. Dive into hands-on learning, local heritage, and community celebration on the longest day of the year.
“Operation Cupcake”: A Sweet Introduction to Elementary Science, Math, and Engineering
Operation Cupcake: How Simple Machines Work is more than a story—it’s a STEM adventure starring two clever mice on a cupcake mission! Featuring simple machines, teamwork, and a sprinkle of humour, this Forest of Reading® nominee is the perfect introduction to science, math, and engineering. Don’t miss our exclusive interview with author and illustrator Bambi Edlund.
