Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!
Teacher Must-Haves for the Classroom ( Tried&True Favorites)
19
items If you’re a teacher, you already know — not everything is worth buying, and we do not have time to waste on things that don’t actually work. These are the things I actually use, repurchase, and keep in my classroom to make the day run smoother (and k...
Sections
3
Writing Tools
Markers and Highlighters
Planning and Organization
Writing Tools
If you’re a teacher, you already know… pens matter more than they should 😂 These are my go-to pens that actually write well, don’t annoy me, and somehow make grading and note-taking slightly more enjoyable.
These are my number one favorite pens. The metallic colors are SO good, they write super smoothly, and I always reach for these over anything else. If I had to pick one pen… it’s these.
Gel Pens - Comfort Grip - Metallic - 20 Colors - KINGART
These never miss. Smooth, reliable, and I always end up going back to these.
Paper Mate Injoy Gel Pens
These are SO smooth and just make writing feel better. If I’m grading or writing all day, I’m reaching for these.
BIC Gelocity Pens
These are my go-to when I want things to look organized and actually cute. I use them for planning, color-coding, and anything where I’m pretending I have my life together.
Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pen Set
These are my go-to pencils that I use all the time. They’re super precise, always write clean, and I never have to think twice about grabbing one — they just work.
BIC Xtra-Precision Mechanical Pencils with Erasers, Fine Point (0.5 ...
Markers and Highlighters
These are my go-to classroom markers — the ones that actually show up, don’t bleed through everything, and make anchor charts and lessons look good without extra effort. Not all markers are worth it… these are.
These are hands down the best markers on the planet. I buy the bulk pack every couple of years and it’s 100% worth it — way better than constantly replacing smaller packs and spending more in the long run.
Mr. Sketch Scented Markers, 192 Count
If you’re making anchor charts, these are one of the only ones I trust. No bleed-through and they actually look bold and clean.
Sharpie Flip Chart Markers, Bullet Tip, 8ct
These are my go-to when I need something more precise than a regular marker. Perfect for labeling, writing small, and not making everything look messy.
Sharpie 24pk Permanent Markers Ultra Fine Tip Multicolored
A classic for a reason. Reliable, easy to use, and perfect for everyday classroom needs.
Crayola(R) Broad Line Washable Markers Classpack - 200 count, 8 colors
It has to be Expo. Anything else is a waste of time. Black is my go-to, but honestly all of them are solid.
EXPO Dry Erase Markers, Low Odor, 12 Ct
These just work. Not all highlighters actually highlight, but these always do.
Sharpie Tank Highlighter, Chisel Tip, Fluorescent Yellow, 36/Pack (1920938)
Planning and Organization
This is how I keep my classroom (and my brain) somewhat organized. From planners to tabs to Post-its — these are the things I actually use to stay on top of everything and not completely lose track of what’s going on.
I’ve tried other planners… and I always come back to this one. It just works, and I don’t have time to be experimenting every year.
Teacher Planners | Carson Dellosa Education
This is my everything. Keeps my schedule, lessons, and life all in one place and makes me feel way more organized than I actually am.
Teacher Planner | Lesson Plan Book | Erin Condren
A great option if you want something customizable. Still structured, but you can make it work for your own style.
Happy Planners-Teacher
These are so good for lessons and modeling. Basically mini anchor charts without the commitment.
Lined Sticky Notes 4X6 In Bright Ruled Post Stickies Colorful Super Sticking Power Memo Pads Its
It has to be the real Post-it brand. I use these nonstop for reminders, notes, and quick ideas.
Post-it Super Sticky Notes, 3 in. x 3 in., Supernova Neons, 24 Pads
I always have a notebook for random notes, ideas, and things I don’t want to forget. Keeps everything in one place instead of scattered everywhere.
CUSTOM Motivating Teacher Spiral Notebook
Without this, my desk would be a disaster in about 5 minutes. This keeps everything where it’s supposed to be (in theory).
Livhil Desktop Organizer 4-Tier Desk Organizers Sets and Storage, File Organizers for Desk Drawer Organizer, Paper Organizer for Desk (White) - Walmart.com
Keeps all the little things (paper clips, staples, etc.) from turning into a complete mess in your desk.
Marbrasse Expandable Desk Drawer Organizer, Mesh Drawer Organizer Tray with 10 Adjustable Compartments, Desk Organizers and Accessories