sioux falls school supply list

2 min read 03-02-2025

Finding the right school supplies for your child in Sioux Falls can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from where to find lists to tips for saving money and minimizing waste. We'll cover different school districts, common supplies, and resources to help you navigate this annual back-to-school task with ease.

Navigating Sioux Falls School District Supply Lists

Sioux Falls School District (SFSD) doesn't publish a single, universal supply list. Instead, each school within the district—from elementary schools like Patrick Henry to high schools like Lincoln—typically provides its own specific list. This is because individual teachers often have varying needs and preferences for their classrooms.

How to Find Your School's Supply List:

Check your school's website: The most reliable place to find the list is on your child's school's official website. Look for sections like "Parents," "School Supplies," or "Back to School."
Contact the school directly: If you can't find the list online, call the school office. The administrative staff will be happy to provide you with the necessary information or direct you to the correct resource.
Attend back-to-school events: Many schools host back-to-school nights or open houses. These events are great opportunities to pick up supply lists and ask questions.

Common School Supplies for Sioux Falls Students

While specific requirements vary, here are common supplies you'll likely find on most Sioux Falls school supply lists:

Elementary School:

Pencils: #2 pencils are usually preferred. Consider buying a bulk pack to save money.
Erasers: Pink erasers are a classic choice.
Crayons: A 24-count box is generally sufficient.
Colored Pencils: These are often used for art projects.
Markers: Washable markers are recommended.
Glue Sticks: Glue sticks are easier for young children to handle.
Scissors: Child-safe scissors are essential.
Rulers: A basic ruler is usually enough.
Notebook Paper: Wide-ruled notebook paper is standard.
Folders: Consider buying folders in various colors for organization.
Backpack: A comfortable and durable backpack is a must.
Pencil Case: A pencil case helps keep supplies organized.
Construction Paper: Often requested for art projects.

Middle & High School:

Many of the elementary school supplies are also needed, but middle and high school students may also require:

Pens: Black and blue ink pens are commonly used.
Highlighters: Highlighters are helpful for note-taking.
Binders: Binders are useful for organizing class materials.
Dividers: Dividers help keep binders organized.
Graph Paper: Some math and science classes require graph paper.
Calculators: Check with the school or teacher regarding specific calculator requirements.

Saving Money on School Supplies

Shop sales and use coupons: Back-to-school sales are abundant. Take advantage of discounts and coupons.
Buy in bulk: Purchasing supplies in bulk often saves money in the long run.
Check for gently used supplies: Consider purchasing used supplies from consignment shops or online marketplaces.
Create a supply-sharing system with other parents: Collaborate with other parents to share the cost of certain supplies.

Minimizing Waste & Promoting Sustainability

Choose reusable supplies: Opt for reusable water bottles, lunch boxes, and pencil cases to reduce waste.
Buy supplies with recycled content: Look for products made from recycled materials.
Repurpose materials: Find creative ways to reuse old containers, jars, and other materials.

By following these tips and diligently checking your child's school's website, you can confidently and efficiently prepare for the new school year in Sioux Falls. Remember to always double-check the specific list provided by your child's teacher to ensure you have everything they need to succeed.