Families feeling the price of back-to-school shopping

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – On average, families will spend over $800 on back-to-school shopping, but one county in southeastern North Carolina is looking to cut the financial burden.

Parents were filling the aisle of a Wilmington Walmart, all with a back-to-school list in hand. Most of the adults looking at the cost of every item their child placed in the cart.

“Around 100 dollars per kid for supplies and then when you add in shoes and clothes and that sort of thing, we might be looking at $250 per child to send them back to school,” said Ashley Thornton, a mom of four who was back-to-school shopping.

“This year, just in supplies itself, about $100, but I am doing it a little more frugal. I do the Dollar Store first then come to Walmart and see what I can get,” said Lauren Jacob, a mom of three.

However, parents and caregivers in Columbus County do not have to worry about the school supply list this year.

The district has allocated money for supplies at each school, allowing classrooms to be fully stocked with what students need. Superintendent Jesse Beck says in this economy it can be difficult for parents to spend the extra money on school supplies.

“We believe in providing supplies to all students because it ensures equal opportunity and equity. And you know regardless of their socioeconomic background they will have access to the tools that they need for success,” said Beck.

Beck says that providing school supplies can have positive long-term outcomes for the students, such as leading to higher graduation rates. This is the third year Columbus County has done a no-supply list, and Beck says he hopes to continue the trend every year.

Copyright 2024 WECT. All rights reserved.