How the Teacher Supply Hub Supports First-Year Teachers
July 24, 2025 – Starting a new teaching job is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to getting your classroom ready. Whether you’re a first-year teacher or an experienced educator new to Hamilton County Schools (HCS), the Teacher Supply Hub is here to help teachers feel supported from day one.
The HCS Teacher Supply Hub is a completely free store for teachers. It is stocked with essential school and classroom supplies, everything from pencils and notebooks to bulletin board decorations to cleaning products.
How It Works
Teachers in Hamilton County Schools may shop twice each semester. That’s four shopping visits per school year which is a huge benefit for HCS teachers. All teachers have to do is just sign up for a time slot and they get access to the Teacher Supply Hub. It’s a quick and easy process.
This is especially helpful for teachers who are just starting out. First-year teachers often spend hundreds of dollars of their own money to get their classrooms ready. And for new teachers joining HCS from other districts, they may not know where to begin. The Teacher Supply Hub makes that process less stressful. You walk in, shop for what you need, and leave with your arms full and your wallet untouched.
Keeping the Shelves Stocked: Community Support is Key
But the shelves don’t stock themselves. The Hamilton County Schools Foundation keeps the store running through donations from local businesses and community members. These donations make a direct impact on our teachers and students. All contributions, both financial and material, are tax-deductible.
There are several ways you can support the Teacher Supply Hub:
- Donate school supplies.
New and gently used items are welcome. You can ship directly from the Amazon Wishlist or drop off items at the Central Office (3074 Hickory Valley Road). For large donations, email hcsfoundation@hcde.org to arrange a pickup.
- Donate funds.
Monetary donations allow the Foundation to buy supplies in bulk at discounted prices. Visit the HCS Foundation website, click the Donate button, and choose “HCS Teacher Supply Hub” under “Please designate my gift for.”
- Host a supply drive or become a sponsor.
Community groups, churches, and local companies can host drives or sponsor the Hub. Sponsors are recognized in the store on Shopping Days and throughout the year online. For details, contact Krissa Barclay at (423) 498-6943 or barclay_krissa@hcde.org.
Every Employee Valued
Every notebook, pencil, and glue stick helps teachers focus on what matters most—their students. For new teachers especially, the Teacher Supply Hub is more than just a store. It’s a sign that Hamilton County is a place where educators are supported, appreciated, and set up for success.
Every employee is valued in HCS and this is a commitment within all HCS schools. The goal is to make sure every educator and staff member feels valued while feeling empowered, supported and connected to their work.
So, welcome to Hamilton County Schools. We’re glad you’re here—and we’re excited to see what these new teachers grow into this school year.
