The Price of Education

The picture above shows a SAMPLING of the school supplies I bought for my kiddos the other day.  Let's keep in mind that I have 3 children, but only 2 of them need supplies, since Owen will be in Pre-K and all of his supplies are part of his tuition.  So,  I bought supplies for my 3rd grader and my 5th grader and guess what?!  This isn't everything.  This is just what I bought that day.  Some other things on the list, we already had, like boxes of tissues and pencils left over from last year.  And there were a couple of items on the list that we couldn't find so we'll have to continue the hunt.  And my first thought, after I caught my breath when I heard the friendly Walmart sales clerk tell me the total was eighty some dollars, was, "What about the people that are really struggling financially in this country?  How are they ever going to be able to afford all the supplies and school fees, and purchase of new clothes that comes with the start of a new school year?"

During our church's week of Vacation Bible School (starting this week) the children are challenged to bring in extra school supplies to donate to those in need.  I have noticed several stores who have collection boxes by their front door for individuals to do the same.  I encourage you to take the time and spend an extra $5, or more if you are able, and buy some basic school supplies and find someplace to donate them.  It's important for all children to start the new school year feeling confident and fully armed with the proper supplies needed to help them on the road to a good education.

I'll step down now and put my soap box away...