Many teachers pay out-of-pocket for food, supplies for students

As unions fight to keep their bargaining rights in Wisconsin, teachers in Cedar Rapids say the cost of learning often comes out of their own pockets.

Local teachers say they end up paying for books, supplies and even food for their students.

Amy Smith is a third year biology teacher at Jefferson High School.

“I have a lot of students that don't eat lunch on a daily basis -- they don't have the money,” said Smith, “so I always keep granola bars, fruit roll ups, things like that, in my cupboard.”

Between lab supplies, books and even food, Smith says she can spend anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 a year stocking her classroom.  Smith tells us the science department only covers the cost of big ticket items for teachers.

“If it's a one-time use item, they don't like us spending money because it's going to be gone,” she said.

Veteran educators, like 16-year teacher Michelle Frye, says throwaway items can easily add up to $500, including essentials for students like three meals a day.

“'Ms. Frye, I didn't have lunch or I don't have any lunch money,' we hear that more than you think,” said Frye.

Both teachers say they do their best to provide whatever a student needs, even if it comes out of their paycheck.

“If we don't get a pay raise that's fine," Frye said, "but I don't think things should be taken away that we already have.”