Parents are paying a large amount of money for school supplies in two school districts this week. There is help for families who are in need.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Jefferson County schools will kick-start the year on Monday, Knox County schools are starting on Tuesday and Sevier County schools will follow on Wednesday.
According to Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth almost 13% and almost 20% of Knox County children and Sevier County are living in poverty, respectively.
For some parents, the start of a new academic year can be a difficult time. As the child grows older, expenses increase. Mike Rhea, from Sevier county in Tennessee has an eighth-grade daughter and estimates that this school year’s expenses will be around $1,000.
“[I’m] Working a lot harder… Just doing all I can to make sure that everything is paid for,” said the man.
Clothing is just as important as pens, notebooks and lunchboxes.
Ariel Braddam is a Ten Mile parent who has a child about to begin school. The Braddams started searching for new jeans to prepare for the new year.
“We have been buying a great deal of school clothing and supplies.” Braddam explained that the girl wanted her to do her nails and hair to be ready for 7th grade. You’re probably looking at $100 or more for your hair. We’ve already spent $150 today.
Kylie Braddam is Ariel’s oldest daughter. She often wears blue skinny jeans and flats or sandals. Finding new items is the biggest challenge facing Ariel and his family.
Kylie is looking forward to the first day of her schooling.
“[I hope for] She said, “I want to have really good grades as well as to improve on my basketball team. Everyone can always do better and I just want to make a lot more friends.”
Knox County School District provides free clothes to children from low-income households. USDA estimates that a low-income household will spend about $800 yearly on clothing for each child.
You can help by donating any unworn clothes in the closet. You can also save money by shopping at thrift shops or online.
Find out what back-to school events are happening around Knoxville.