As a teacher, you need to move from your home to the classroom with a full load of papers, textbooks, your computer, other personal electronic devices, and maybe even your lunch. Having the right backpack is essential to making this daily reality as stress free as possible. Here we have put together a list of some of the best teacher backpacks that will go easy on your back and on your pocketbook.

Here are the best options we have found that combine style, comfort, and most importantly – practical functionality.

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now onto our review of the best teacher backpacks for you.]

What is the Backpack for Teachers?

Here are our picks for the 6 Best Teacher Backpacks:

1. 1. Hap Tim Laptop Backpack
   2. Jiefeike Large Capacity Laptop Backpack
   3. SwissDigital Water Resistant Backpack
   4. Matein Travel Backpack
   5. Kuprine Lightweight Business Backpack
   6. Coolbell Convertible Backpack-Messenger Bag

1) Hap Tim Laptop Backpack

Hap Tim Laptop Backpack. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Topping out the list of best teacher backpacks is the Hap Tim Laptop Backpack. This backpack caught our eye with its unique doctor-bag style closure. The design allows the user to see everything at a glance from above and provides easy access to everything. This backpack has an internal metal frame that allows the bag to stay open yet maintain its integrity in shape. It will never slouch or flop over.

Aside from its ingenious design, this backpack offers abundant storage space in one main compartment. If you feel overwhelmed by too many pockets, this backpack is for you! The bag features an adjustable protective sleeve so you can confidently store your laptop securely among all your other belongings. With the smaller pocket on the front, you can stash all the smaller things you want to keep handy, and with the side mesh pockets you can bring your water bottle, coffee cup or umbrella.

This backpack is water resistant and can take a fair amount of abuse without showing wear – no need to worry about getting stuck in rain or the accidental spills. In fact, the only negative that we can think of that this bag may have is that it is a bit heavy because of the internal metal structure.

Overall, we feel that this backpack is a modern, no-nonsense, practical, and highly functional design for the working professional.

2) Jiefeike Large Capacity Laptop Backpack

Jiefeike Large Capacity Laptop Backpack. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The Jiefeike backpack is the next on the list. If sleek is not your style, and you need some serious storage space – with a 45L capacity, this is the backpack for you. This bag features three large compartments and over 15 pockets! This includes one dedicated fully padded laptop sleeve that can fit up to a 17 in laptop! When fully loaded, this backpack is comfortable for the wearer, featuring ample padding and breathable mesh.

The other thing we love about this bag is that it incorporates technology. You can count on a headphone port and, most importantly, a USB charging port (you have to buy the charging pack) and included cable. With this feature you can stay connected without leaving your phone plugged in away from your desk.

This backpack also includes other anti-theft features such as lockable zippers and hidden security pockets. This bag is made with heavy duty fabric that is both tear and water resistant, though some consumers report problems with stitching quality.

Overall, this backpack is one of the most top rated options if you need capacity and strength above all else.

3) SwissDigital Water Resistant Backpack

SwissDigital Water Resistant Backpack. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Next on our list of the best teacher backpacks is the SwissDigital Water Resistant Backpack. This backpack does not top our list because of its price, which tends toward the higher side. But sometimes a little extra investment is worth it. This backpack takes technology integration and anti-theft measures to a whole new level by having a dedicated RFID protection pocket that allows you to store your credit cards and license without fear that your information will be scanned. Additionally, you can count on a USB charging port and included cable (battery charging pack not included).

This bag offers an incredible amount of storage space with 15 independent pockets and compartments, including a dedicated padded laptop and electronics compartment. This backpack also features a 180 degree, lay-flat design, making this a practical option for having easy access to all of your electronics. This particular model also offers a special velvet lined pocket exclusively for your sunglasses!

Counted among the other included features are water resistance, mesh cup holders and reflective strips for night visibility. With high tech, heavy duty material and stitching, this backpack is sure to be a good investment.

The only doubt we have with this backpack is how comfortable it would be to wear when fully loaded. The straps, while not weak, seem to lack padding for the size of a load you could potentially carry in this beast of a backpack.

4) Matein Travel Backpack

Matein Travel Backpack. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The Matein travel backpack is different from the others on the list, being a more traditional style backpack, but with all the modern features one would hope to find. It lacks all the zippers and mini pockets accessible from the outside, giving it a sleeker look, without sacrificing storage capacity.

Of the three main compartments, one is fully dedicated to protecting your laptop and other electronic devices with a designated padded pocket. The front pocket opens revealing a variety of smaller pockets, ideal for storing little things you want to keep on hand. The middle pocket is large and spacious with room for your folders, files, textbooks and whatever else you need to fit in there. With an extra-large capacity, this bag could hold your gym shoes, too! This backpack is also weather resistant and made with heavy duty tear resistant material.

With this backpack you can count on a USB charging port and cable (charger pack not included) to keep you connected and your devices close at hand. Additionally, this backpack has other anti-theft features such as lockable zippers and hidden pockets. The lay flat design makes this bag a great option for travel. Why buy a backpack that works only for the classroom?

It should be noted that some consumers have complained that this backpack, despite its size and manufacturer’s claims, can only comfortably protect a 15.6 in laptop. Otherwise it seems like a great option for someone who wants a sleek profile without sacrificing storage capacity.

5) Kuprine Lightweight Business Backpack

Kuprine Lightweight Business Backpack. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

This backpack is a nice alternative for the teacher that likes to travel lightweight. If you don’t need the storage capacity of an extra-large backpack, and like a traditional backpack design, this is the bag for you. Constructed of tear resistant material, this bag has ample back support and a breathable design for maximum comfort.

This backpack features one main compartment for your files, and books. Behind that, you will find a discreet space exclusively for your laptop. The front compartment has all kinds of pockets to keep your smaller things handy and organized, and there is a front sleeve, perfect for a tablet or keeping your phone on hand. There is even an anti-theft hidden pocket on the back!

This backpack doesn’t leave out the essential USB charging port and cable (charger pack not included) either. The best feature about this bag, unlike the others, is that the charging port can be removed making this backpack machine washable! How’s that for real-life practicality!

The only real downfall to this backpack that we can think of is that it is not particularly water resistant. It might hold up to an accidental spill, but most likely not a torrential downpour. Otherwise, this backpack is compact yet spacious option for keeping organized between the classroom and home

6) Coolbell Convertible Backpack-Messenger Bag – Briefcase

Coolbell Convertible Backpack-Messenger Bag – Briefcase. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

This backpack rounds out our list of best teacher backpacks and is our favorite for versatility. Maybe you need to look the role of the professional that you are, and a briefcase would be more appropriate to take to an important meeting. Maybe a backpack is more comfortable for your commute. This ingenious designs allows you the flexibility to choose how to carry your essentials and how to present yourself while using the same piece of luggage. With hideable back straps and a removable shoulder strap you can easily convert this bag to suit your needs.

This bag stands out for its remarkable laptop protection. If your computer is your main tool, this is the best option for you. Featuring an exclusive compartment with built in anti-shock foam padding, this backpack offers the best protection for your laptop of all the options on our list. In the other compartment you will find ample room to store your textbooks and other essential papers.

This bag is made of high quality, water resistant canvas and features genuine leather details. What this bag does not have is a USB charging port or anti-theft features. If those are not essentials for your lifestyle, and you appreciate compact practicality – this may be the best backpack for you.

Best Teacher Backpacks – What’s Your Favorite?

We hope you find this list a useful starting place on your search for the best teacher backpack that fits your teaching career and lifestyle. Please, feel free to share our recommendations! While you’re at it, be sure to let us know in the comments what features you most look for when considering the perfect backpack for you.

Are you looking for a new lunchbox for the upcoming school year? Then look no further! Below you will find our review of 5 of the very best teacher lunch bags / boxes on the market today.

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now onto the awesome teacher lunch boxes for you.]

What is the Best Lunch Bag for Teachers?

Here are our picks for the 5 Top Recommended Teacher Lunch Bags / Boxes:

1. 1. Fit & Fresh Fayetteville Lunch Kit
   2. Vapos Large Insulated Lunch Bag
   3. BALORAY Lunch Bag Tote
   4. Eco-Wheat Straw Recycled Plastic Lunch Bag Set
   5. InsigniaX Insulated Lunch Bag

1) Fit & Fresh Fayetteville Lunch Kit

Fit & Fresh Fayetteville Lunch Kit. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

We start our list of the best teacher lunch bags with the Fresh & FayetteVville Lunch Kit. his lunch bag kit is perfect for teachers because it comes with everything you need to quickly eat your lunch in style. The lunch bag itself is very spacious and can hold a variety of sizes. As an extra bonus this kit comes with 2 storage containers (one 1 cup container and one 2 cup container), a water bottle, and an ice pack. Everything but the food to have the perfect lunch break. With 3 different patterns to choose from you can feel stylish while eating.

On top of having a cute pattern, the outside of the bag has a side pocket that perfectly fits the matching water bottle. On the inside of the bag there is a mesh pocket where you can easily store your fork and knive or that ever necessary napkin. This bag boasts a PEVA lining that is easy to clean and is eco-friendly. The lining will also keep your food fresh and cold for a long period of time, a perfect quality for teachers in case lunch turns into an after school snack instead.

Finally, this lunch bag has large straps that make it a breeze to carry with the many other bags every teacher carries. Another plus is the large buckle closure to ensure all of your delicious food remains safe inside of your lunch bag.

If you are looking for an all-inclusive lunch bag, storage containers, water bottle, and ice pack that is also very cute then this is the lunch kit for you!

2) Vapos Large Insulated Lunch Bag

Vapos Large Insulated Lunch Bag. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Next on our list of the best teacher lunch bags is the Vapos Large Insulated Lunch Bag. If you are an over packer, or looking for a catch everything type of lunch bag, stop looking because this is the perfect lunch box for you!

This is a very basic looking bag with only black and grey to choose from, but what this bag lacks in style it over compensates with storage options! The main large compartment has a capacity of 2.5 gallons, which means you can store a bunch of food containers or use this bag as a cooler for a beach or picnic trip. Insulation is the name of the game for this bag, because it can keep your food hot or cold for up to 8 hours! Never worry about your lunch going bad at school, because it will still be warm or cool after school.

Besides the main compartment you will also find a variety of storage options on the outside of the bag. The front pocket is there to help you organize your keys, lanyard, phone, writing utensils, eating utensils, and more! There are two side pockets that can each hold 32 oz drink containers. If you thought that was enough pockets, you were wrong, there is one more external zipper pocket on the top of the bag where you can store valuables yet also have easy access. Last but not least, there is an internal mesh pocket where you can keep wet naps to help clean up any spills or sticky hands.

Overall if you are looking for a very functional lunch bag where you can store all of the food you worked hard to meal prep, your water bottle, coffee mug, and all the snacks, then get this bag as soon as possible!

3) BALORAY Lunch Bag Tote

BALORAY Lunch Bag Tote. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

This lunch bag screams quality! With almost 2,000 Amazon reviews and an average of 4.6 stars, you cannot go wrong with this adorable and functional lunch bag.

While this bag may look small, it has a large interior to fit all of your on-the-go containers. It is also tall enough to hold a small water bottle or that quick meal shake. The inside of the bag also has the perfect qualities to insulate your food for up to 4 hours, hot or cold. BPA-Free, nontoxic, aluminum foil lining makes it easy to clean in case anything spills as your rushing to eat your lunch.

You have 12 different pattern options to show your personal style. On top of being super cute the material is waterproof and easy to clean. You will also find a large slide pocket on the outside of this bag that can easily carry your phone or that secret stash of chocolate. You can zipper this bag closed to make sure none of your students get a quick snack out of your lunch. Another positive quality of this bag are the sturdy, reinforced, padded handles.

Overall this is an amazing lunch bag that comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If style and quality are right up your alley, then this is the perfect lunch bag for you!

4) Eco-Wheat Straw Recycled Plastic Lunch Bag Set

Eco-Wheat Straw Recycled Plastic Lunch Bag Set. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Here we have the perfect lunch bag for a teacher who is mindful of the environment, but still requires stylish functionality. On top of being eco-friendly you will get some extras in the form of storage containers!

The first storage piece is a box made with plastic alternatives and is divided into two sections. On the lid of the container you will also find a reusable spoon and fork for easy access and storage. This box is also dishwasher and microwave safe, so no need to worry if you have to reheat your lunch twice because you missed “first lunch”. As if that wasn’t enough, you will also get a 10 ounce tumbler that can store your water, or iced coffee. Both of these containers fit perfectly into the bag which takes the guesswork out of choosing which container to pack your lunch in.

The bag itself is made of strong and durable materials so that your lunch bag will last for many school-years to come. Another benefit of the makeup of this bag is that it is easy to clean while also being fashion-forward. The inside has insulation properties to allow your food to stay warm or cold, while also being waterproof. Sturdy straps are another beneficial quality of this bag, reducing the worry of having one of your many bags straps breaking.

5) InsigniaX Insulated Lunch Bag

InsigniaX Insulated Lunch Bag. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The final bag on our list of best teacher lunch bags is the InsigniaX Insulated Lunch Bag.  If you are looking for a mix of functionality and a pop of color, then this teacher lunch bag is perfect for you! This bag boasts over 2,000 reviews with an average or 4 stars, but the majority are 5 star reviews!

This bag is made with very durable material composed of polyester, padding, and PEVA insulation. All of these materials will help to keep you food warm or cold until lunch time finally comes! The main compartment has a lot of space and is deeper than most bags so you can easliy stack any food containers or snacks. You will also have easy access to forks, knives, or wet naps with a front zipper pocket. Finally you have 2 mesh pouch pockets to hold both your now iced coffee and lukewarm water bottle.

You can choose from 4 different colors to customize your lunch bag to your style. There is also the option to attch a long adjustable strap if your hands are full. This product is meant for adults, and even specifically says it is not meant for children under 12 years of age, so finally a lunch bag that you can call your own!

This bag is perfect for someone on a budget, who likes a pop of color, and wants a durable lunch bag. If you don’t like this bag you can also have a 100% Money Back Guarranty! So, give it a try and find the lunch bag of your dreams!

What’s Your Favorite Lunch Bag for Teachers?

After reading our review of our 5 best teacher lunch bags, we hope you can officially ditch those brown paper bags and upgrade to a reusable, durable, and stylish lunch bag! What do you look for when choosing a lunch bag? Which bag is your favorite? Share your thoughts below!

The best document cameras for teachers combine all the best features of by-gone teacher tech and skyrocket them into the twenty-first century! If you (or your district tech department) haven’t seen the newest models, you might first think of document cameras as the gigantic (and unused or unusable) machines in the corner of your college classrooms.

These days, however, document cameras come in a huge variety to fit any budget or purpose. Some are as simple to use as plugging in a USB cord! Here we have reviewed just a few of the myriad options available to help you decide what’s right for your classroom. On to our choices for the best classroom document cameras!

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now onto the awesome teacher document cameras for you.]

What is the Best Document Camera for Teachers?

Here are our picks for the 5 Top Recommended Document Cameras for Teachers:

1. 1. Elmo 1353 Model LX-1 Visual Presenter
   2. Epson DC-13 High-Definition Document Camera
   3. Lumens DC125 Ladibug USB Document Camera
   4. Ipevo VZ-X Wireless Document Camera
   5. IPEVO V4K Ultra High Definition USB Document Camera
   6. iCODIS Document Camera X3

1) Elmo 1353 Model LX-1 Visual Presenter

Elmo 1353 Model LX-1 Visual Presenter. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

We begin our list of the best document cameras for teachers with the Elmo 1353 LX-1 Visual Presenter.  Elmo has become one of the most ubiquitous brands of classroom document cameras and for good reason! They offer a variety of solutions for teachers that are high quality and easy to use.

This particular model by Elmo offers 96 times zoom! This is perfect for highlighting that one specific passage in a document or showcasing some awesome student work. It connects to your computer via HDMI and captures at 30fps for a smooth demostration that won’t remind your students of a stop-motion animation (though we have seen some students make some cute stop-motions with document cameras!).

The best part is Elmo knows their teacher audience well. This model includes auto-focus and zoom buttons that are easy to access on the uncluttered and sturdy base. The base has little feet to balance the camera arm without taking up too much table-top space.

Unlike many of the document cameras on this list, this Elmo model does require a separate power cord. It also lacks the SD card slot that some of the other Elmo models include.

If you want a tried-and-true brand used by thousands of teachers, look no further!

2) Epson DC-13 High-Definition Document Camera

Epson DC-13 High-Definition Document Camera. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Epson is known for their high-quality printers and scanners for a variety of budgets. Their document camera lines are no different offering a wide range of functions and price points.

What sets this document camera apart from the rest of this list and makes it a stand-out for science teachers is the included microscope adapter! This option allows you to attach many different standard microscopes to the document camera to project for your students or record video for later.

The built in microphone makes capturing exciting developments in class easy and the SD card slot allows you to save a video version of your lesson for students to view after absence or online.

The Epson document cameras do tend to be toward the higher end of the cost-spectrum, but most would agree they are well worth the price!

This document camera comes with a remote that includes many interactive functions such as freeze and capture. This way, you can step aside and let students take the lead in the lesson without losing the ability to record milestones and pause for teachable moments!

3) Lumens DC125 Ladibug USB Document Camera

Lumens DC125 Ladibug USB Document Camera. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Next we have the Lumens Ladibug which combines form and function with a middle of the road price point! Teachers love the flexible camera arm and this streamlined version of the Ladibug is easy to use for teachers and students.

The Lumens Ladibug features 8 times zoom, 30 fps and HD output via USB (the USB is also the power source for the Ladibug!). This camera can take your flipped classroom videos to the next level with its built in microphone and the ability to make annotations on your computer screen without marking on your document or book! The Ladibug is compatible with all major interactive whiteboard brands.

This is a great option if you are a teacher who will be spending out of pocket for your document camera. Other teachers have written that they’ve actually decided to replace their school-furnished document camera with a Ladibug! The durability of this product seems to make the out of pocket cost worth it, too.

The downside seems to be that while Lumens bills this as “Plug and Play” other reviewers found that for the device to be fully functional with some older computers, you have to download some of the software. For Windows 10 and newer, the software can be installed via the camera’s USB cord.

4) Ipevo VZ-X Wireless Document Camera

Ipevo VZ-X Wireless Document Camera. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Here’s another great option from Ipevo’s wide range of document cameras. This document camera is one of the higher end from Ipevo and it has all the bells and whistles you could ever need in your classroom!

This document camera is ideal for the tech obsessed teacher or the teacher with an eye for quality images. It can create images and project demonstrations in HD and 4k quality depending on how it’s connected to your main computing device. Those connections can be made via USB, HDMI or WiFi.  Furthermore, Ipevo’s software is compatible with virtually every device ranging from your Mac or Windows computer, AppleTV or projector to your smartphone or tablet!

The Ipevo VZ-X can function completely wirelessly. It comes with 9-12 hours of battery life and up to 33 feet of wireless range. This means you could use the document camera on virtually any flat surface in your classroom and easily move from one desk to another to capture student work or artwork. The document camera’s arm swivels and bends to allow for plenty of flexibiltiy and capture just the right angle.

As with all the document cameras in the Ipevo line, the program to run the camera is easy to install and use. Multiple reviews from other teachers site the ease of use and versatility in the classroom for demonstrations and presentations. Some of the older online reviews cite issues with the screws in the arm or with focusing the camera, but these issues seem to have been fixed as more recent reviews have nothing but positives from teachers!

5) IPEVO V4K Ultra High Definition USB Document Camera

IPEVO V4K Ultra High Definition USB Document Camera. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Next on our review of classroom document cameras is a budget-friendly document camera for teachers also made by Ipevo. This ultra-portable, foldable document camera has all the teacher-basics covered with a teacher-friendly price point.

This inexpensive document camera option still includes the 8 megapixel camera as its pricier sibling so you won’t sacrifice quality of your images and video. This model also only connects via USB, but the USB is also the power source for easy setup. The Ipevo software is installed via the USB as a plug and play device that even the least tech-savvy teacher can install!

Teachers love the auto-adjust features of the software. These make it easy to turn pages, switch documents or write under this document camera. Of course, these features make up for the small downside to this camera: the buttons to complete these functions are on top of the camera and pushing them can sometimes cause the camera to move.

6) iCODIS Document Camera X3

iCODIS Document Camera X3. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Last but not least in our review of classroom document cameras is the iCODIS Document Camera X3.  This document camera is one of the higher end from Ipevo and it has all the bells and whistles you could ever need in your classroom!

This document camera is ideal for the tech obsessed teacher or the teacher with an eye for quality images. It can create images and project demonstrations in HD and 4k quality depending on how it’s connected to your main computing device. Those connections can be made via USB, HDMI or WiFi and Ipevo’s software is compatible with virtually every device ranging from your Mac or Windows computer, AppleTV or projector to your smartphone or tablet!

The Ipevo VZ-X can function completely wirelessly with 9-12 hours of battery life and up to 33 feet of wireless range. This means you could use the document camera on virtually any flat surface in your classroom and easily move from one desk to another to capture student work or artwork. The document camera’s arm swivels and bends to allow for plenty of flexibiltiy and capture just the right angle.

As with all the document cameras in the Ipevo line, the program to run the camera is easy to install and use. Multiple reviews from other teachers cite the ease of use and versatility in the classroom for demonstrations and presentations. Some of the older online reviews cite issues with the screws in the arm or with focusing the camera but these issues seem to have been fixed as more recent reviews have nothing but positives from teachers!

What’s Your Favorite Document Camera for Teachers?

In conclusion, a document camera can revolutionize classroom engagement. We hope this list helped you find just the right one for your classroom needs and that you’ll share what you found with your colleagues and friends! If you have your own personal best document camera for teachers, share the knowledge in the comments below!

Looking for the best teacher bags on wheels? To help you roll to and from class in style, here are 5 of the best teacher tote bags on wheels currently available!

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now onto the awesome teacher bags for you.]

What are the Teacher Bags on Wheels?

Here are our picks for the 5 Top Recommended Roller Bags Perfect for Teachers:

1. 1. Olympia Fashion Rolling Shopper Tote
   2. Pacific Coast Signature Large Rolling Shopper Tote Bag
   3. Mount-It! Mesh Rolling Utility Cart
   4. Smart Cart Rolling Multipurpose Collapsible Basket Cart
   5. Lily Bloom Underseat Bag

1) Olympia Fashion Rolling Shopper Tote

Olympia Fashion Rolling Shopper Tote. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

We start our review of rolling bags for teachers with the Olympia Fashion Rolling Shopper Tote. The perfect educator’s companion, this rolling teacher tote will make transporting your items easy. Features include a retractable pull handle, as well as a hideaway zippered enclosure. This bag’s reinforced recessed ball bearing inline skate wheels are ultra quiet and built for maximum use.

This solid and stylish option is perfect for teachers. It has a few handy pockets on the exterior and a sturdy top that zips for rainy days. With over 2300 cu. in. of space this bag is very spacious. So, it should definitely be able to hold all of your teacher supplies. The bottom is made out of heavy-duty plastic so need to worry about putting too much in the bag!

We also love the various design options for teacher tote. Including the “houndstooth” pattern pictured here there are over 10 patterns to choose from!

2) Pacific Coast Signature Large Rolling Shopper Tote Bag

Pacific Coast Signature Large Rolling Shopper Tote Bag Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

For any teacher looking for a great bag on wheels, the Pacific Coast Signature Large Rolling Shopper Tote Bag is definitely worth checking out. This teacher tote bag features inline smooth gliding wheels to get you to school and back and a retractable handle that zips away when not being used. A top loading compartment and side mesh pocket makes it easy to locate your items.

One awesome feature that we absolutely love is the bottom base support. Along with the smooth gliding wheels, this feature is designed to allow your bag to stand upright no matter how big the load. This means less stress on your back!

This one also has a handful of fun designs to choose from, from zebra print to beautiful floral patterns such as the one pictured.

3) Mount-It! Mesh Rolling Utility Cart

Mount-It! Mesh Rolling Utility Cart. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The Mount-It! Mesh Rolling Utility Cart portable mesh rolling tote is perfect for carrying your school files, books, and supplies without causing undue stress on your body. Teachers who have purchased this rolling teacher cart have loved how they can transport their supplies around campus with ease.

This lightweight, versatile rolling teacher cart folds away for easy stowing. Store it in your car, in your locker, or anywhere else that’s convenient.

This rugged cart for teachers features a rust-proof aluminum telescoping handle and polypropylene body. It has 2.4 cubic feet of space and is rated up to 55 lbs so you can definitely transport a lot of stuff!

4) Smart Cart Rolling Multipurpose Collapsible Basket Cart

Smart Cart Rolling Collapsible Cart. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Next on our review of rolling bags for teachers is the teacher approved Smart Cart Rolling Multipurpose Collapsible Basket Cart. This teacher tote is the perfect rolling tote for educators on the go.

We like both how easy this bag is to store and how flexible it is. One small negative that some mentioned is that is small. However, it is small but strong. It weighs only 3 lbs but can carry up to 110 lbs!

This foldable teacher bag on wheels has an extendable handle for easy maneuverability. Features also include a front packet for easy-access items and it is also made of weatherproof material.

With this one you have 15 design options to choose from. That said, you will surely be able to find a pattern you like!

5) Lily Bloom Underseat Bag

Lily Bloom Underseat Bag. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Last but not least, our final teacher rolling bag is one educators rave about!

The vibrantly designed Lily Bloom Underseat Bag has a unique lightweight biodegradable canvas exterior. It also features a fully lined interior, a “premium telescopic push button handle system”, large exterior zippered opening plus 4 outside compartments. Storage is easy with this one so you can easily hold your laptop, lunch, papers to grade, etc.

The various design options for this bag are simply beautiful. This bag will definitely help you roll to and from class in style.

Another thing that helps us give this one our highest recommendation is that it comes with a 5 year manufacturer’s warranty. We’re happy to say that you can buy this tote with confidence.

What’s Your Favorite Teacher Tote on Wheels?

We hope you will share some of these fantastic teacher totes with the special teachers in your life. Be sure to also check out our other educational product reviews. One you might want to see is our review of the best teacher tote bags with pockets.

Otherwise, If you have your own favorite teacher bag on wheels, please share it in the comments below!

Looking for an awesome greenhouse for your school or classroom?  If so, you’re in the right place! Here we review some of the best classroom greenhouses currently available.

Check out our reviews below to discover how easy these greenhouses can be to use. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture surrounding these greenhouses on how to pick the one that’s best for your needs!

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now onto our review of the best greenhouses for classrooms. Header Image © davit85 /Adobe Stock]

What are the Best Classroom Greenhouses?

Here are our picks for the 5 Best Greenhouses for Classrooms:

1. 1. Educational Insights GreenThumb Classroom Greenhouse
   2. Kendal Garden Mini Greenhouse
   3. Forrestore Mini Greenhouse
   4. Porayhut Clear Greenhouse
   5. Gardman R687 4-Tier Mini Greenhouse

1) Educational Insights GreenThumb Classroom Greenhouse

Educational Insights GreenThumb Classroom Greenhouse. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

First on our list of the best classroom greenhouses is the Educational Insights Greenhouse.  Teachers have been pleased to find that this mini greenhouse can be assembled within minutes. Therefore, you’re able to have it set up and ready for your students to use in no time.

We liked how it has a 2-tiered design. This means that you’re able to fit more greenery on the 2 shelves. So, it’s a great feature if you have a larger classroom of students who can all observe how different plants grow.

The durable shelves are made out of a sturdy wire that will keep your classroom’s plants off the ground! A vinyl cover is included which fits over the heavy duty metal frame to keep your plants safe. Students can easily access the plants by opening the zipped ties.

2) Kendal Garden Mini Greenhouse

Kendal Garden Mini Greenhouse. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The Kendal Garden Mini Greenhouse is an excellent option for classroom use. This is because of its more compact size.

Therefore, if you’re worried about a greenhouse taking up too much space, this one may be a great option to consider. It will look great not only in your classroom, but also on balconies, decks, patios, and inside your home too.

There is a cover that has been made using polyethylene materials that’s clear so that you can easily see through to your plants. You and your students can access this greenhouse easily via the zippered door.

We liked how they’ve used high grade steel materials to construct the frame with. This ensures that the greenhouse can remain durable for a long time.

While assembling the greenhouse, some find that the plastic connectors are a little fragile and can be damaged easily. However, there are no tools required.  As long as you and your students take care with the plastic pieces, there should be no issues!

3) Forrestore Mini Greenhouse

Forrestore Mini Greenhouse. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Next on our list of the best greenhouses for school classrooms is the Forrestore Mini Greenhouse. With a total of 4 tiers available, you can be sure to grow a wider range of plants. While there are 4 tiers, it’s still a compact size, which makes it great for larger classrooms and home use indoors.

The shelves have been constructed using high-quality steel materials that have been coated in powder. These materials and powder work together well to keep the shelves durable and strong to support your plants.

A door is available that has a zipper to make it easy to access. Furthermore, we were impressed with how they’ve incorporated a ventilation system. This enables your plants to be provided with plenty of airflow to stay healthy for longer.

If you’re looking to use the greenhouse outdoors, you’ll be glad to hear that it has a PE cloth which works well to keep your plants protected in different weather conditions. So, you can put it out in the backyard, deck, or patio.

Some people have mentioned how the stitching on the cover isn’t as great as they were expecting. Although, most people have been praising how it takes under 15 minutes to have the greenhouse setup.

4) Porayhut Clear Greenhouse

Porayhut Clear Greenhouse. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

If you’re looking for a greenhouse that’s easy to transport around to different classrooms or places in your home, the Porayhut Greenhouse could be an excellent option.

It has an awesome pop-up design that makes it remarkably easy to setup. This pop-up feature also makes it easier to put the greenhouse into a more compact size to move around. The lightweight feature makes this even easier!

We love how the cover that’s included is clear and easy to see through. It’s also effective at keeping the plants protected.

5) Gardman R687 4-Tier Mini Greenhouse

Gardman R687 4-Tier Mini Greenhouse. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Last but not least on our list of the best classroom greenhouses is the Gardman R687 mini greenhouse.  With 4 tiers available, this is a fantastic option that allows you to grow a wide variety of plants. Therefore, it’s awesome for classrooms if you have more students who want to grow different plants.

While there are 4 tiers, the overall size of this greenhouse is still compact. So, you’re able to place it in your classroom or around your home without it taking up too much space.

There’s a polyethylene cover that’s see-through. This is great for being able to quickly check on how the plants are doing. In addition to this, a door is available with a zip on the front.

Some people have found that the zip isn’t as durable as they were expecting. However, if you use it carefully, this feature makes it very easy to access your plants.

There is a tubular steel frame that provides the greenhouse with plenty of stability. Not to mention, the assembly takes just minutes and you don’t need any tools.

What’s Your Favorite Mini Greenhouse for Classrooms?

So, that wraps up our review on what some of the best classroom greenhouses have to offer. We hope that this has helped you decide on a great mini greenhouse for your students.

Leave a comment below if any of these greenhouses stick out to you. Feel free to mention any other greenhouse that you love too – it could help others make a decision!

Are you in need of a new, stylish, yet extremely useful teacher tote for this upcoming school year? Look no further for reviews of 7 of the best teacher tote bags with pockets!

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now onto our review of the best teacher totes with pockets. Header Image © Natali Vinokurova /Adobe Stock]

What are the Best Teacher Tote Bags with Pockets?

Here are our picks for the 7 Best Teacher Totes:

1. 1. MONSTINA Laptop Tote Bag
   2. TANTO Laptop Tote Bag
   3. Sunny Snowy Laptop Tote Bag
   4. Vera Bradley Iconic Vera Tote
   5. DEMOMENT Canvas Tote
   6. Brooke & Jess Designs Large Teacher Tote Bag
   7. SCOUT BJ Bag

1) MONSTINA Laptop Tote Bag

MONSTINA Laptop Tote Bag. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

To begin, we have the MONSTINA Laptop Tote Bag. This bag is a teachers dream with pockets, on pockets, on pockets to organize all of your educational materials while staying within an appropriate budget. There is a large protective compartment that can fit most laptops up to 15 inches. For further protection of your school laptop or tablet there is an elastic strap that velcros to the side of the bag to keep your tech in place.

Remember when we said pockets? Well this tote boasts 15 internal pockets of various sizes to store all of your writing utensils, papers to be graded, that spare chapstick, headache medicine, and even your trusted lesson planner.

Even though you are already sold because of all the organizational possibilities, you shouldn’t overlook the external components of this bag! The material used is a high-grade leather and nylon combination that is wear-resistant (which we all know we need in a teacher bag!).

The best part of this bag? It is so stylish that you can double it as a large going out purse or a carry on for that much needed vacation you are planning. There is one review that says the leather is a low quality. On the other hand, many of the reviews on Amazon talk about how cute this bag is all the while providing a beneficial way to carry a computer and all the other necessary teacher materials.

Look no further for the perfect educator tote that provides all of the necessary forms of organization (with all those pockets), can be used in many different settings because it is so stylish, and has only amazing review on Amazon.

2) TANTO Laptop Tote Bag

TANTO Laptop Tote Bag. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Here we have another quality teacher bag that supports both education, technology, and your personal style. This bag and additional carryall wristlet is very well priced and provides you a high quality way to carry all of your teaching materials.

The main compartment of this bag has 2 large sections. One of the compartments is specialized for your computer to keep it safe using padding and a velcro strap. The other side is used to store everything else such as an umbrella, that half filled barely warm coffee, school lanyard and keys, the colorful pens you use to grade, and of course all the other papers that need your attention.

Structurally this bag is sound, made with quality water resistant fabric and heavy duty zippers. You will never have to worry about spilling something on this bag because you can easily wipe off that juice box that accidentally found its way near your bag. Adjustable straps are another characteristic so that you can carry it as a handle bag or a shoulder bag depending on how tired you are after that long day of teaching.

A unique characteristic of this tote is that is comes equipped with a USB port. This will allow you to carry a portable charger that can provide power to that overused computer or tablet that was used all day long for lesson planning and emails.

The reviews on Amazon strongly support this bag in both style and practical purposes. The only negative reviews are about the bag being too big, which doesn’t tend to be an issue for teachers who seem to carry their lives in a bag.

If you are looking for a bag that will provide you a many school years worth of organization, charging capabilities, and style then this is the bag for you!

3) Sunny Snowy Laptop Tote Bag

Sunny Snowy Laptop Tote Bag. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Next on our list of the best teacher tote bags with pockets is the Sunny Snowy Laptop Bag. Are you looking for a classic work tote that can support your teaching needs? Then this tote is for you. This tote does look very large when you carry it over your shoulder, but that only means there is plenty of space for all those random things you find in a teachers bag!

The inside of this bag has 2 large compartments where you can put your textbooks, tablets, folders, lesson planner, binders, and more! You will also find 2 slide pockets on the inside that can keep your important materials within grabbing distance, such as your phone, keys, or wallet. A zip-top closure further protects your items of importance.

Externally this bag is made with high quality nylon, while the inside has a polyester lining making this bag a breeze to clean. Allowing you to keep this bag going strong for many school years because of the water resistant and wear resistant build. There are some reviews stating the bag has a funky smell and comes folded up and wrinkled, but that is a small price to pay for a bag that you can easily clean.

If you are looking for a basic teacher tote that can store your laptop, plan book, and some other materials this is the bag for you!

4) Vera Bradley Iconic Vera Tote

Vera Bradley Iconic Vera Tote. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

If you are looking to treat yourself on a trendy, adorable, and sturdy teacher bag, then the Vera Bradley Iconic Vera Tote is the bag for you!

This adorable cotton tote is the epitome of quality. You can see this in the prefect stitching that Vera Bradley is well known for. You can also personalize this bag by choosing from many different patterns within a variety of color schemes.

On the outside you can find 2 different types of pockets, one of which is a basic slip pocket, and the other is a zip pocket with a few special secrets! Within this zip pocket you will find a charger pocket and a hidden top pocket for your most valuable items, such as your wallet.

The inside of this bag is lined with polyester and 6 slip pockets. This will allow you to easily organize any materials you need to carry with you on a daily basis while also allowing you to clean up your favorite pen that just happened to become uncapped.

This is a very large bag that can be seen as expensive. If you find yourself thinking this bag seems perfect don’t let the price tag deter you, think of this as an investment in a quality bag that will save you time because your school ID is right in that front pocket.

5) DEMOMENT Canvas Tote

DEMOMENT Canvas Tote. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

We have another teacher tote that comes in a variety of patterns and boasts a ton of pockets! This bag is advertised as a “Utility Teacher and Nurse Organizer”, or in other words, perfect for the teacher who loves having everything in its proper place.

This is a roomy bag that can easily fit a 15 inch laptop along with your other daily items. The inside has a zip pouch on one side and 2 slip pockets on the other side. Allowing you to determine what needs to be tucked away from a spying eye, and what needs to be easily accessible. Zipper the bag closed up top to ensure all of the contents remain in the bag, have to protect those special grading pens!

The exterior of this bag is what will really draw you in. 100% Cotton Canvas that has a special plastic-like coating to wick away water is a strong selling point to teachers of young students, or teachers with children! Gone are the days when a spilt coffee or fruit punch ruins a bag because you can easily grab a paper towel and wipe it right up!

Truly one of the best teacher tote bags with pockets!

6) Brooke & Jess Designs Large Teacher Tote Bag

Brooke & Jess Designs Large Teacher Tote Bag. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

If you are a fan of bags with cute teacher sayings, this is the best teacher tote bag with pockets for you! You can choose from a variety of colors and sayings that will make you giggle and say, “Yeah, that’s me!”.

When looking at the bag you will see that the front has 2 zipper pockets, one of which will have the clever teaching saying of your choice. On the sides of the bag you will have 2 sleeve pockets, one for the coffee that has become “Iced Coffee”, and one for the ever necessary water bottle. You will also be able to appreciate the sturdiness of this polycanvas bag and its ability to easily be cleaned. The handles are another strong selling point because they are strong! Every teacher knows that a great teacher bag is made with strong handles, because well we pack a lot into our bags and the handles need to be able to keep up!

Finally, when purchasing this bag, you are helping to support a small business run by two sisters who are also moms! They have built their business with the goal in mind that they want their products to be gifts anyone would want to receive because they are one of a kind! So gift yourself this bag, while also adding the fact that you supported a small business to your good deed list.

7) SCOUT BJ Bag

SCOUT BJ Bag. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Last but not least on our list of best teacher tote bags with pockets is for all you dog lovers out there. The SCOUT brand is all about the adorable Dachshund, and usability.

This bag has a very roomy interior and lacks internal pockets. Perfect for the teacher who already has all of the most adorable pencil cases, “Just in Case” Zip-Ups, and other organizational containers. You can easily fit in a variety of books, folders, and binder clips filled with papers to grade. Arguably the most important aspect of the inside of this bag is the “Burst-Proof Bottom”. This will put any teachers heart at ease knowing that they can stuff this bag full of materials with no risk of embarassingly having the bottom rip out.

Externally the bag is made for all types of weather. The fabric is a interwoven polypropylene that allows it to be water-resistant while also keeping the bag itself lightweight. This type of fabric is also easy to clean and will last at least a few school years. You will also find 4 external slip pockets to allow you for easy access to things such as your car keys or school keys, depending on if you’re running late to school or leaving for the weekend. Speaking of leaving school, when summer break rolls around this bag can be collapsed and folded for easy storage. Put it away for the summer, relax, and take it back out, good as new for the next school year!

What’s Your Favorite Teacher Tote?

That concludes our review of the best teacher tote bags with pockets. We hope you found the organizational and stylish teacher tote bag of your dreams, and can now recommend one to your fellow teacher friends. What is your tried and true teacher bag? Share it in the comments below!

Interactive kids learning globes can be a fun and engaging way to teach geography to kids. Here we share 5 of the highest rated learning globes for children that are both awesome and affordable!

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now onto the awesome kids globes for you.]

What are the Best Globes for Children?

Here are Our 5 Top Recommended Kids Learning Globes:

1. Oregon Scientific Smart Globe
2. USA Toyz 3-in-1 Illuminated World Globe
3. Learning Resources Puzzle Globe
4. Shifu Orboot: The Educational, Augmented Reality Based Globe
5. Educational Insights GeoSafari Talking Globe

1) Oregon Scientific Smart Globe

Oregon Scientific Smart Globe. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

We start our review of the best kids learning globes with the Oregon Scientific Smart Globe. This learning toy allows kids to learn over 2000 fun facts, listen to national anthems of different countries, history and more. One of the cool features of this one is that kids can touch around the globe using the “SmartGlobe” pen. There are digital touch points all over both the globe and stand base.

Included with this smart globe are 19 engaging games that help teach kids about world facts. There’s a ton of functions and ways for kids to quiz themselves. And recently, Oregon Scientific has built in an augmented reality component to this globe that allows children to use the Oregon Scientific app to bring the globe to life with animals and dinosaurs!

Most feedback on this product is very positive, with a common complaint of this particular learning globe being that the default setting can be too loud. However that was a minor complaint among otherwise fantastic reviews.

2) USA Toyz 3-in-1 Illuminated World Globe:

USA Toyz 3-in-1 Illuminated World Globe. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The 3-in-1 Illuminated World Globe from USA Toyz is not only a kids learning globe, but also a constellation map and nightlight! Also included with this globe is a downloadable constellation app.

Children who love to gaze at the stars will absolutely love this one. They will be able to spot no less than 88 awesome constellations. A handy illustrated guidebook is included that will help kids learn the names, location and mythology of each constellation.

This globe is light at only one pound but also very durable. If features a sturdy chrome steel base that is built for stability.

One of the only complaints about the globe is that is small, so if you are looking for a bigger globe then you should probably pass on this one. However, the smaller size (16.2 x 13.2 x 13 inches) of this one is made perfect for fitting on a desktop or dresser.

3) Learning Resources Puzzle Globe:

Learning Resources Puzzle Globe. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Next up on our review of learning globes for children is the The Learning Resources Puzzle Globe.

This globe for kids is perfect for teaching the basics of geography via interactive tactile play. While not as high tech as the other globes, this fun, engaging 14-piece puzzle globe can help teach even pre-K kids the names of the continents, oceans, famous landmarks and more.

This learning toy comes as a set of 14 pieces, including a spinning globe, 6 continent puzzle pieces 6 labels for the continents, and a sheet of blank label stickers. Those of you know your geography may be wondering why only 6 continent pieces? Antarctica is actually represented by a stationary bottom piece.

The Learning Resources Puzzle Globe comes with high praise, including being recommended by the Mom’s Choice awards and the Parents’ Choice Foundation. It has our highest recommendation as well!

4) Shifu Orboot: The Educational, Augmented Reality Based Globe:

Shifu Orboot: The Educational, Augmented Reality Based Globe. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The Shifu Orboot augmented reality globe is among the best kids globes for helping to spark imagination and creativity! The globe itself doesn’t require a power source. Rather it is run entirely from the app.

Categories in the app include maps, weather, cultures, monuments, inventions and animals for a wide range of countries around the world. All of these are in 3D and enhanced with music and voices!

Within the app are also a bunch of puzzles and activities. Children can solve mysteries, take interactive quizzes and collect rewards along the way.

Besides the app-based globe and companion app, this learning toy comes with a helpful guide and a fun travel kit. Included are a passport, stamp, and country flag stickers that your kids should love.

This interactive kids globe is one definitely worth checking out!

5) Educational Insights GeoSafari Talking Globe:

Educational Insights GeoSafari Talking Globe. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Our final product in our list of the best kids learning globes is the multiple award-winning Educational Insights GeoSafari Talking Globe, which includes more than 10,000 geography questions!

Up to 4 players can play the quiz game and can select various quiz categories, including the U.S.A, Canada, the World or ALL categories. Features include automatic scoring, question repeat, a help button, jacks for headphones or an AC Adapter (sold separately) and adjustable volume.

One small complaint about this talking globe is that the volume is on the softer side. Also, this is one of the pricier options.

This globe has won dozens of toy and education awards including from Teachers’ Choice, Parents’ Choice, Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Best Award and others. If you are looking to instill an appreciation for the countries, people and cultures of the world, this might be a great choice for you!

Kids Learning Globes – What’s Your Favorite?

We hope you have found our list of the best kids globes useful towards your quest to find a perfect globe for the special children in your life! If you have your own favorite learning globe for children, please share it in the comments below.

Here are links to the 5 learning globes we feature here as well as some others on Amazon. If you are interested in using games for teaching, please be sure to also check out our list of the best money board games for kids.

Projectors are one of the most-used and most-versatile tools in the classroom. From showing movies and PowerPoint slides to using interactive software, there are endless possibilities for all grade levels. If you’re looking for the right projector for you classroom, look no further than our list of eight of the best classroom projectors. These projectors span all price points, for even the thriftiest of teachers!

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now onto our review of the best projectors for classroom use. Header Image © WavebreakmediaMicro /Adobe Stock]

What is the Best Classroom Projector?

Here are our picks for the eight best classroom projectors in 2019:

1. 1. Casio XJ-F210WN WXGA
   2. Epson POWERLITE 1940W WXGA 3LCD V11H474020 Projector
   3. Optoma WU336 WUXGA 3400 Lumens Business & Education Projector
   4. Epson VS340 XGA 3LCD Projector 2800
   5. ViewSonic PJD5255 3300 Lumens XGA HDMI Projector
   6. SOLOVE HDMI Projector
   7. Vankyo Leisure 3 Mini Projector
   8. Nebula Capsule

1) Casio XJ-F210WN WXGA Classroom Projector

Casio XJ-F210WN WXGA. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

We start our list with the Casio XJ-F210WN WXGA, the only projector on the list to combine laser and LED hybrid technology. The Casio XJ-F210WN WXGA, Ultra Video Projector is a sleek, modern-looking projector with laser and LED hybrid technology. If you’re not a science teacher, that might sound like a bunch of technology jargon to you. Basically, that means you get better color quality and you’ll never have to replace a light bulb ever again. The light source in this model is designed to last the lifespan of the unit itself, 20,000 hours! It’s better for the environment, doesn’t overheat, and starts up almost instantly, saving you valuable time.

Teachers call this projector “a good value for the money.” They cite the ease of use, image quality, and lack of noise as its strengths. At about 8.5 pounds, it’s a little heavy for mobile teachers, but makes an excellent ceiling-mounted unit.

2) Epson POWERLITE 1940W WXGA 3LCD V11H474020 Projector

Epson POWERLITE 1940W WXGA 3LCD V11H474020 Projector. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The Epson POWERLITE 1940W WXGA 3LCD V11H474020 Projector has 4200 lumens of color brightness and 4200 lumens of white brightness, giving it one of the most brilliant picture qualities on this list. An additional built-in feature means you can attach multiple sources and display their content on a split screen.

One educator notes that her set up is never the same from week to week, but this unit features horizontal and vertical keystone correction that enables her to easily set up each time.

At almost 12 pounds, it’s not the most portable projector on our list, but the picture quality is outstanding.

3) Optoma WU336 WUXGA 3400 Lumens Business & Education Projector

Optoma WU336 WUXGA 3400 Lumens Business & Education Projector. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The Optoma WU336 WUXGA 3400 Lumens Business & Education Projector is optimized for small to medium rooms, making it a good choice for your classroom. This projector is well worth the price for 3,400 lumens of brightness, a 15,000-hour lamp life, and a 10-watt speaker. That’s right! You won’t have to order a new light bulb until you’ve run it for 15,000 hours. That’s a money saver right there!

Teachers love how much time this projector saves them. It is easy to set up right out of the box. The 10-watt speaker means you won’t have to worry about wasting time attaching external speakers, and you will probably never have to replace the light bulb!

4) Epson VS340 XGA 3LCD Projector 2800

Epson VS340 XGA 3LCD Projector 2800. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The Epson VS340 XGA 3LCD Projector 2800 can be used just about anywhere, at any time of day, thanks to its XGA resolution (1023×760), 2800 lumens of color brightness, and 2800 lumens of white brightness! Users rave about its ability to project clear, sharp images in a lit room. No need to waste time pulling down the blinds or putting paper over the windows. Plus, your students won’t be struggling to take notes in the dark!

Teachers of all kinds have used this projector in a variety of educational settings, from seminary school classrooms to Toastmasters groups. Teachers agree that the sharp images mean students can better see details such as numbers on charts and graphs

This projector also supports HDMI, so you can hook up your laptop or media player with ease. At just over 5 pounds, it is still portable and adaptable enough for the busy teacher’s lifestyle.

5) ViewSonic PJD5255 3300 Lumens XGA HDMI Projector

ViewSonic PJD5255 3300 Lumens XGA HDMI Projector. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Next on our list of the best classroom projectors is The ViewSonic PJD5255 3300 Lumens XGA HDMI Projector.

This one has amazing reviews from users of all walks of life. They love how a variety of media players can be attached using the HDMI, USB, and VGA ports.

Whether your have a Mac, PC, or ipad in your classroom, you should be able to use this projector. Users also point out that it’s easy to hook up Apple TV or a Firestick for movie projection.

The aspect ratio of 10:16 (wide-screen format) may be great for movies, but isn’t ideal for PowerPoint presentations, which are usually presented in a more “square” format.  Still, for the mid-level price, this is a good unit for everyday use.

6) SOLOVE HDMI Projector

SOLOVE HDMI Projector. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The SOLOVE HDMI Projector is another economical choice, coming in at under $200.

This projector allows the user to customize the screen size and can even be hooked up to your smartphone or TV, making it adaptable for teachers who don’t have regular access to a laptop.

One small criticism of this projector is that the fan is slightly noisy, but users say that it can be easily ignored when watching movies at a normal volume.

Users like that the built-in speakers provide adequate volume for an average sized room. External speakers can also be hooked up to the projector. This projector is a good choice for playing movies or instructional videos in your classroom.

7) Vankyo Leisure 3 Mini Projector

Vankyo Leisure 3 Mini Projector. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The Vankyo Leisure 3 Mini Projector is a small, lightweight choice for classroom use, without compromising picture quality. At 2.1 pounds, it is easy to carry from classroom to classroom, for teachers who share equipment or who travel throughout the day.

Users love how easy it is to set up, the included carrying case, and the quiet fan. The Vankyo Leisure 3 Mini Projector is marketed for playing games, watching movies, and viewing TV shows on a “big screen” and is not recommended for PowerPoint or other presentation software.

Still, at under $100, it is a good choice for movie day in your classroom.

8) Nebula Capsule

Nebula Capsule. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Last but not least on our list of the best classroom projectors is the Nebula Capsule by Anker. It is by far the smallest, lightest, most portable projector on our list.

This cool little gadget is about the size of a soda can, sits on any flat surface, and runs on one rechargeable lithium ion battery. This projector will fit inside your teacher bag, alongside your books and folders! Perfect for adjunct professors who travel from campus to campus or who have unreliable technology in their classrooms.

Teachers love the power of the built in speaker and its capability to run apps like Netflix as well as media from a USB flash drive, using the provided micro USB cable. It might not be big and fancy, but for the price it’s a fairly affordable alternative for teachers on a budget.

What’s Your Favorite Projector for Classroom Use?

We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of the best classroom projectors on the market. With so many projectors out there, you’re sure to find something that fits your budget and usage needs!

Do you already use any of these projectors in your classroom? Your thoughts and recommendations would be appreciated in the comments below!

The days of manual pencil sharpeners are gone. They usually take too long to use and break easily. Yes, you need an electric pencil sharpener for your class! However, which one should you choose?  If you are you having a difficult time trying to find the best electric pencil sharpeners for classroom use look no further!

Read on for eight great options to choose from when looking for an awesome classroom electric pencil sharpener.

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now onto our review of the best electric pencil sharpeners for you.]

What is the Best Electric Pencil Sharpener for Classroom Use?

Here are our top 8 picks:

1. 1. X-ACTO Model 41 Electric Pencil Sharpener
   2. School Smart Vertical Electric Pencil Sharpener
   3. AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener
   4. OfficeWorld Electric Pencil Sharpener
   5. JARLINK Electric Pencil Sharpener
   6. X-ACTO Pro Electric Pencil Sharpener
   7. Ruiya Office Electric Pencil Sharpener
   8. Zmol Electric Pencil Sharpener

1) X-ACTO Model 41 Electric Pencil Sharpener

X-ACTO Model 41 Electric Pencil Sharpener. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The first item in our review of best pencil sharpeners for classroom use is the X-ACTO Model 41 Electric Sharpener. It’s available in a beige color, which makes it perfect for classrooms.

It has been made to a commercial grade which means it can handle being used all day long. This is a great benefit if you have a particularly large class of students.

There are dual helical cutters that are effective at providing you and your students with precision while sharpening your pencils.

We were impressed with how they’ve implemented a Pencil-Saver function too. This is great for preventing you from sharpening your pencils too much. So, if you’re tired of dealing with pencils getting too sharp and breaking easily, this could be an excellent solution.

While some find it makes a little more noise than they were expecting, the motor operates with power that’s reliable. You can also feel confident in keeping your students safe as a result of the SafeStart feature.

2) School Smart Vertical Electric Pencil Sharpener

School Smart Vertical Electric Pencil Sharpener. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Next on our list of the best electric pencil sharpeners for teachers is the School Smart Electric Pencil Sharpener.  We liked how this one has an area that collects all of the pencil shavings that makes it super easy to clean out. The sharpener also doesn’t work unless this storage unit is attached to prevent any accidental messes.

The motor is heavy-duty and is very reliable to use. With the helical steel blade that’s available, you’re able to use this machine consistently to sharpen pencils on a daily basis.

In order to allow students to use the sharpener safely, there are rubber pads included that have anti-skid properties. These are excellent for allowing your students to sharpen their pencils with stability and safety.

An auto-pencil stop function has been incorporated too. This is fantastic for preventing you from over-sharpening your pencils. So, you’re able to get the perfect sharpness every time.

It’s available in sleek gray or black colors that look superb in classrooms.

Some people have mentioned it doesn’t always sharpen pencils 100% evenly. However, the vertical design makes it super easy and quick to use.

3) AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener

AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

With the high-quality helical blade, you’re able to sharpen colored and No. 2 pencils reliably more than 6,000 times! This is also due to the high-grade electrical motor that has been fitted.

We were impressed with how it takes just 3-5 seconds to sharpen pencils. Therefore, you won’t have to waste any learning time in your classrooms.

The auto-stop function that’s available means that the machine will automatically stop sharpening pencils. Therefore, you and your students will be able to sharpen your pencils perfectly every time.

Teachers have been loving how there are 3 sharpness modes available. These include sharp, medium, and blunt. So, you can be more specific with how sharp or blunt you want the pencils to be.

We also liked how there’s a storage box that collects the pencil shavings that makes it easy to clean out. The sharpener only works when this unit it attached to prevent shavings from making a mess of your classroom.

Some find that they have to hold pencils tightly to sharpen them properly. Although, a suction cup is available at the bottom that makes it stable for students to sharpen their pencils.

4) OfficeWorld Electric Pencil Sharpener

OfficeWorld Electric Pencil Sharpener. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

If you’re looking for a machine that can sharpen pencils fast, this OfficeWorld option is one to consider. You’re able to sharpen pencils within 5-10 seconds.

The helical blade that’s available is effective at sharpening pencils reliably. This is especially the case since there’s an auto-stop feature included. This means the machine will automatically stop when the pencil is sharpened to perfection.

With the diameter of the entrance where the pencil goes being just 8 mm, you can feel confident in knowing that this machine is safe for younger students to use.

Some users have mentioned how there were hoping for the pencil sharpener to be a little more powerful. Having said that, it’s very versatile as you can use it to sharpen charcoal, colored, and No. 2 pencils.

A pencil shaving container is available which makes it effortless to empty out and keep your classroom clean.

5) JARLINK Electric Pencil Sharpener

JARLINK Electric Pencil Sharpener. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Here’s another great vertical option!  The helical blade that’s available inside this sharpener is heavy-duty, which means that you can rely on it for a long time. We were impressed with how this blade is able to sharpen pencils within just 5-10 seconds.

An auto-stop feature has been implemented which works effectively to stop sharpening the pencil after it has been perfectly sharpened. This is a great feature that allows you and your students to sharpen pencils to perfection, hassle-free.

It can sharpen charcoal, No. 2 pencils, and colored pencils. It’s also super easy to use. All you need to do is insert the pencil into the entrance and the machine will automatically work to start shaving the pencil.

The 8 mm diameter of the entrance ensures that younger students can remain safe as they can fit their fingers into the hole. A

It’s a little louder than some were anticipating. However, teachers have been appreciating how they can keep their classrooms clean due to the reservoir. It collects all of the shavings so that you can easily dispose of them.

6) X-ACTO Pro Pencil Sharpener

X-ACTO Pro Pencil Sharpener. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

This X-ACTO Pro Pencil Sharpener is an awesome option for classrooms because it has been made with a quiet motor. Therefore, you and your students can sharpen pencils without causing any distractions.

The durable construction of this pencil sharpener also ensures that it will last you for a long time. It’s able to withstand classrooms with lots of students!

We also liked how there’s a Flyaway cutter function available. This works to automatically stop the machine once a pencil has been sharpened. This is a great feature that makes achieving perfectly sharp pencils a breeze.

While some people have mentioned they have issues with the auto-stop function, you can be sure that this sharpener is safe as it incorporated a helical steel cutter that has been designed to prevent kids from accessing it with their fingers.

7) Ruiya Office Electric Pencil Sharpener

Ruiya Office Electric Pencil Sharpener . Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

With the auto-stop function that’s available with this sharpener, your students will be able to prevent over-sharpening. So, you can rely on this machine to sharpen your pencils perfectly on a daily basis.

There’s a shaving tray available that catches all of the shavings to make cleanup easier. The machine doesn’t work unless this tray is connected to prevent accidental messes.

We were impressed with how quick this sharpener works as it only takes a matter of seconds.

There are some users who have been a little disappointed with the power of the sharpener. However, it’s a downside that many can overlook because of how you can adjust the sharpness between 0.45 and 0.95mm.

The compact design makes this an ideal option if you have a classroom that’s feeling too cluttered. It’s also lightweight to ensure that you can move it around easily.

8) Zmol Electric Pencil Sharpener

Zmol Electric Pencil Sharpener. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

We conclude our list of the best electric pencil sharpeners for classroom use with the Zmol Electric Pencil Sharpener.  You and your students are able to use this pencil sharpener easily as it starts working automatically as soon as you insert a pencil. In addition to this, an auto-stop feature is available which stops the machine once your pencil has been sharpened properly.

A storage unit is included which catches all the shavings to make it easier to clean. The machine won’t work unless this unit is connected to stop shavings from creating a mess.

A helical blade has been used which can sharpen pencils more than 6,000 times without signs of wear. Teachers have also been liking how there are 3 sharpness modes available. This lets you choose between sharp, medium, and blunt.

You may have to be wary about how much pressure you use while sharpening pencils as it can affect how powerful the blade and motor are able to work.

Having said that, it works to sharpen pencils remarkably quick. On average, it takes between 3 and 5 seconds. Therefore, your students won’t have to waste time sharpening pencils and can focus on your lessons more.

What’s Your Favorite Electric Pencil Sharpener?

That concludes our review on some of the best electric pencil sharpeners for classroom use that are currently available. We hope that the details we’ve outlined for you in our review are useful in helping you to pick the best electric pencil sharpeners for your classroom!

Feel free to comment what your favorite electric pencil sharpener is below. It could be helpful for other fellow teachers!

Do you need an amazing teacher desk for your classroom?  Look no further! Here we have put together a review of 6 of the best desks for teachers currently available.

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now onto the awesome teacher desks for you.]

What is the Best Teacher Desk Currently Available?

Here are Our Picks for the 6 Best Teacher Desks:

1. Balt Stand Up Mobile Teacher Workstation Desk
2. Learniture Steel Double Pedestal Teachers Desk
3. OFM Mesa Series Teachers Desk with Laminate Top
4. Sandusky 600 Series Steel Double Pedestal Teachers Desk with Maple Top
5. Sauder Edge Water Computer Desk
6. Learniture Single Pedestal Teachers Desk

1) Balt Stand Up Mobile Teacher Workstation Desk

Balt Stand Up Mobile Teacher Workstation Desk. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

We start our list of the best teacher desks with the stylish and versatile Balt Stand Up Mobile Teacher Workstation Desk.

This stand up mobile teacher workstation is perfect for the classroom. The strong wheels are connected well and the casters are built to deal with many years of wear and tear.  The stand’s interior has great ventilation so that your device will stay cool. The locked cabinet is great to store teaching materials or lunch.

This teacher desk is of course easy to move around the classroom so that you can maintain a fresh perspective! Furthermore, the rounded design of the top lends itself to being able to push around to a variety of locations.

One small nuisance that some teachers mentioned was that the wheel locks tend to fall into the locked position when stationary.  However, this was a very small complaint among otherwise fantastic reviews.

Of all the teacher desks we feature, this one is the most unique and also has the most rave reviews!  This teacher desk on wheels is perfectly suited for the modern classroom.

2) Learniture Steel Double Pedestal Teachers Desk

Learniture Steel Double Pedestal Teachers Desk. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Second on our list is the Learniture Steel Double Pedestal Teachers Desk.

This elegant desk features two pedestals as well as locking side drawers for all of your supplies. The high pressure laminate desk top is easy to clean and the steel frame is scratch resistant.

There are leveling glides on the legs that help to ensure an even work surface. There is also t-mold edge banding that helps protect the desk. Two grommet holes will help you with wire management as well.

This modern teacher desk is built well and looks great. We’re also happy to note that it comes with a lifetime limited warranty so you can purchase with peace of mind!

3) OFM Mesa Series Teachers Desk with Laminate Top

OFM Mesa Series Teachers Desk with Laminate Top. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The OFM Mesa Series Teachers Desk with Laminate Top is both functional and attractive. With a 16-gauge steel frame it is built to last as well. Features include a scratch-resistant powder coat paint finish, locking pedestal and center drawer as well as full ball bearing center drawers.

This desk is huge, with lots of room for your books and other teaching materials. The size and weight is one drawback when purchasing. It can take awhile to unpack and set up. However, most agree that this beautiful desk is worth the trouble!

All-in-all a great classroom teacher desk option.  This one is durable and built to last.  It should survive even the rowdiest of classrooms!

4) Sandusky 600 Series Steel Double Pedestal Teachers Desk with Maple Top

Sandusky 600 Series Steel Double Pedestal Teachers Desk. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Continuing our review of teacher desks is the Sandusky 600 Series Steel Double Pedestal Teachers Desk with Maple Top.

This desk is built for comfort and safety. It features a laminated wood top surface with vinyl covered edges and rounded corners.

There’s a 6″ rear overhang, perfect for student conferencing. Keep your teaching materials safe with the central locking system that locks all drawers.

Teachers who have gone with this option have said that they are just the right size and the drawers offer ample storage space.

Highly recommended!

5) Sauder Edge Water Computer Desk

Sauder Edge Water Computer Desk. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

The affordable but sophisticated Sauder Edge Water Computer Desk is another great teacher desk option.

This desk has a spacious tabletop for all of your teaching essentials. There’s a storage area that can hold a vertical computer tower, as well as two drawers that roll smoothly on metal runners. The lower drawer holds hanging files and is built to help you organize your papers.

Teachers who have purchased this desk mention that it does take a good amount of time to put together. However, it does come with easy to follow, step-by-step instructions.

Again, not only is this teacher’s desk stylish but compared with our other reviewed teacher desk options it also easy on the wallet.

6) Learniture Single Pedestal Teachers Desk

Learniture Single Pedestal Teachers Desk. Click the photo to see the price on Amazon.

Rounding up our list of the best teacher desks is the sleek, modern Learniture Single Pedestal Teachers Desk from Learniture. This teacher’s desk has a steel base and laminate top that is easy to clean.

The dual locking drawers provide lots of storage space and will keep your teaching materials safe. This desk is sure to have an even work surface with its leveling glides on the legs.

Another strong and sturdy teacher classroom desk from Learniture that should last you a long time.  As with other Learniture products, this desk has a lifetime limited warranty.

This one has the highest teacher recommendation!

What’s Your Favorite Teacher Desk?

We hope you will share some of these fantastic teacher desks with the special teachers in your life. If you have your own favorite teacher desk, please share it in the comments below!

Are you seeking out the best label maker for teachers? To help you make a great decision for your classroom, here are 5 of the best label makers for teachers out there!

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now onto the awesome teacher label makers for you.]

What is the best Label Maker for Teachers?

Here are Our 5 Top Recommended Label Makers Perfect for Teachers:

1. Brother P-touch PTD600 Label Maker
2. Epson LabelWorks LW-300 Label Maker
3. Brother P-touch PTH110 Easy Portable Label Maker
4. Brother PTD400 Label Maker
5. DYMO COLORPOP Color Label Maker

1) Brother P-touch PTD600 Label Maker

First on our list of best label makers for teachers the Brother P-touch PTD600 Label Maker. This product is perfect for any classroom and will make labeling your class items both fun and easy. Features include a large keyboard, compact design and a high resolution display. You can easily make labels with the Wide Easy Type Keyboard or conveniently connect to your Mac or PC to create them.

Brother P-touch PTD600 Label Maker – Sample Amazon Review

“You might want to consider if you should buy a label maker or not… this thing is just fantastic. It’s a little tank and keeps on printing. it’s so good you’ll find yourself prowling around looking for things to slap a label on. It gets a bit addicting. “

2) Epson LabelWorks LW-300 Label Maker

Next on our list is the Epson LabelWorks LW-300 Label Maker. This “whisper quiet” teacher label maker features a bright, backlit display. This one also comes with a lot of variety in terms of design choices, with over 14 fonts, 300+ symbols, barcodes and a whole lot more. It also has great storage capacity to save your favorite classroom labels. Store up to 50 files!

Epson LabelWorks LW-300 Label Maker – Sample Amazon Review

“This is the best organizational tool I have purchased to date! It came with a pamphlet with the 89 different frames/borders that can be printed with this label maker, and I didn’t even need to read the directions to figure out which button does what. It’s very user-friendly and is easily held in my small hands. The backlit screen makes viewing a breeze no matter what type of lighting I am in.”

3) Brother P-touch PTH110 Easy Portable Label Maker

The Brother P-touch PTH110 Easy Portable Label Maker is by far the most affordably priced option on our list.  This label maker perfect for teachers is extremely portable and lightweight.  It has an easy-type QWERTY keyboard, one-touch keys, and a nice selection of styles and fonts.  Highly recommended!

Brother P-touch PTH110 Easy Portable Label Maker – Sample Amazon Review

“I bought this to replace another Brother P-touch hand-held label maker, which I had for many years. This arrived today and I am very pleased with it. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles that you might find with another label maker, and some people might be disappointed that it only offers 3 fonts, but the choices it offers – which are plenty – are all I need. I especially like that I can adjust the margins, which wasn’t available with my last one and I always felt the large margins were a waste of tape. I also like that I can make cable labels. Instructions that were included are excellent. It’s very easy to use, doesn’t take up a lot of space, is sturdy, and prints a good-looking label .”

4) Brother PTD400 Label Maker

Yet another great option from Brother is the PTD400 Label Maker. The compact design could definitely fit well in your classroom. It also has a graphical display, one-touch keys, multi-line labels (up to 5 lines of text!) and more.

Brother PTD400 Label Maker – Sample Amazon Review

“Great label maker works really well, but I missed somewhere in the description (if it said) that it doesn’t come with a power cord. You only have the option of using battery powered unless you order the power cord separately. I would have liked that spelled out a little more clearly. I didn’t happen to have batteries around when I really needed to use it. Other than that, the product works great!”

5) DYMO COLORPOP Color Label Maker

Finally, rounding up our review of the best label makers for teachers is the portable and lightweight DYMO COLORPOP Color Label Maker. Various customization options are included, such as 150+ emojis, 4 borders, and a variety of font and text options. This cute and very fun choice also comes bundled with blue, purple and silver glitter label tape.

DYMO COLORPOP Color Label Maker – Sample Amazon Review

“Every year my kids have to make labels for various projects or clubs, this year I found this adorable label maker that does cute labels with emojis in many colors plus it’s easy to use! Their projects are adorable, the color and glittery labels make the projects stand out.”

What’s Your Favorite Teacher Label Maker?

We hope you will share some of these fantastic label makers with the special teachers in your life.

Be sure to also check out our other reviews of recommended products for teachers. For example, see our recommendations for the best teacher roller bags and best teacher desks for your classroom.

If you have your own favorite label maker for teachers, please be sure to share it in the comments below!

If you are still struggling with student debt, have you looked into teaching loan forgiveness programs?

Here I outline 6 student loan forgiveness programs for teachers.  Please check them out, you may qualify to get some or all of your student loans forgiven!

1) Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

First on our list of teaching loan forgiviness programs is the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. This program was initialized in 2007 with the aim of encouraging more people to work in public service, including at schools.  PSLF forgives William D. Ford Direct Loans (including direct PLUS loans, direct consolidation loans, direct subsidized loans, and direct unsubsidized loans).

Please see the PSLF eligibility requirements here. To summarize the conditions for qualifying for this program, you must:

• Make 120 consecutive (10 years!), of on-time, full payments, starting no earlier than 10/1/2007
• Work full-time in the Peace Corps, Americorps, or a public service organization (schools qualify!) for the entire time the payments were made

This is definitely a difficult program to qualify for, but if you meet the above conditions, than this program is well worth looking into. See the PSLF certification form here.

2) Federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness

The goal of the Federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness program is to encourage people to become (and remain) teachers. It is a generous program that allows for up to $17,500 in teacher loan forgiveness.

Here is a summary of the eligibility requirements for this program:

• Eligible loan types include unsubsidized student loans and direct subsidized loans
• The loans must have been established after 10/1/98, and at least one of the teaching years must be after the 1997-1998 school year.
• You cannot be in default
• You must work for five consecutive, full years as a teacher, at least one of the years at a qualifying school:
• The qualifying school must be in a Title I qualified district
• The qualifying school must have more than 30% of students qualified for Title I services
• The qualifying school must be listed in the government’s directory of qualifying schools.
• Teachers at a qualifying educational service agency are also eligible

In most cases, teachers are eligible to get $5,000 of their loans forgiven. “Highly qualified” math, science, and special education teachers may be eligible to receive up to the full $17,500 in teacher loan forgiveness.

Download the application for this program here.

3) Federal Perkins Loan Cancellation

With the Federal Perkins Loan Cancellation program you can get up to 100% of your Perkins loans forgiven, including any interest you have accrued! Teachers only have to teach full time for a year to receive benefits:

• You will get 15% of your loan cancelled after years one and two.
• For years three and four, you will get 20% more of the loan cancelled each year
• In the fifth year, you will get the final 30% of your Federal Perkins loan cancelled.

Here’s what qualifies for the Perkins loan cancellation program. You can:

• Teach in a school that serves students from low-income families (see if your school qualifies as “low-income” here) or;
• Be a special education teacher (including for infants and toddlers) or;
• Teach in a field that your state has defined as having a teacher shortage in, such as science, bilingual education, math, foreign language, etc. or;
• Teach at a private school that is a nonprofit or;
• Teach part-time at multiple schools, as long as you meet the other requirements or;
• Teach preschool or pre-K, only if your state classifies them as part of elementary education

To get the application form for this program, contact the office where you went to college that administers the Federal Perkins Loan program.

4) Stafford Loan Forgiveness

The popular Stafford Loan Forgiveness program provides qualified individuals up to $17,500 in teacher loan forgiveness.

However, it is a very difficult program to qualify for. You must:

• Work full-time for 5 consecutive years at a Title I qualified elementary or secondary school, with 30% of students who qualify for Title I services or at a school listed in the Annual Directory of Designated Low-Income Schools
• Not be in loan default
• Not have taken out any direct loans or FEEL Program Loans before 10/1/98.

One big plus of this program is that teachers can take advantage one of the Federal Student Loan Forbearance programs during those five years. If you are having difficulties making payments, this is a great option and could really help your short-term finances.

See the Stafford Loan Forgiveness Application form here.

5) Federal TEACH Grants

The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant program provides up to $4,000 per year to qualifying college students who will become teachers.

TEACH Grants are unique in that they are the only type of teacher loan forgiveness provided before debt is accumulated. Other loan forgiveness programs, of course, provide forgiveness after you have taken on student debt.

These grants will provide as much as $4,000 per year to college students who:

• Intend to teach at a school that serves primarily students from low-income families
• Are enrolled in a teaching credential providing program
• Plan to teach full-time for at least 4 years
• Plan to teach in a “high-need” field

6)  State and City Sponsored Teacher Loan Forgiveness Programs

Fortunately, there are also many state and city teacher loan forgiveness programs. Rather than list them here, I will share with you an excellent resource.

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) has put together a searchable database of state and city loan forgiveness programs, classroom donation programs, as well as various awards and grants.

In addition, your district school board should be able to point you in the direction of any city or county funded loan forgiveness programs.

Save Money on Your Student Loans and Get $100!

If you cannot get all of your loans forgiven with teaching loan forgiveness programs, please also consider student loan refinancing. We recommend checking out Sofi. Fixed rates start at 3.50% and variable rates start as low as 2.13% APR (with AutoPay). Sofi members save an average of $14,000! Apply here and you will receive a $100 bonus when you refinance.

If you are a teacher in California looking to buy a home, you are in luck!  California educators have access to some of the best teacher home loan programs in the country.  Teacher home loans in California are available from a variety of sources.

For your convenience, we have compiled a list of your options for teacher home loans in California. Read on for our guide of the best teacher mortgage options in California!

Here are 4 California Teacher Home Mortgage Options Worth Considering:

1. LendingTree
2. CalHFA School Teacher and Employee Assistance Program
3. CalHero Teacher Home Loans
4. MyCommunity California Teacher Mortgages

1)LendingTree California Teacher Home Loans

Our #1 recommended provider of teacher home loans in California is LendingTree. With LendingTree, you can easily compare up to five educator-friendly teacher home loan in California offers!

Whether you are purchasing a home, refinancing, looking for a home equity line of credit or seeking a reverse mortgage, we highly recommend LendingTree.

If looking at any of the other California teacher home loan options that follow, we recommended you take a look at LendingTree first! This will give you the most options. Furthermore, it can help you make an informed decision on which California home loan for teachers is best for you. Highly recommended!

2)CalHFA School Teacher and Employee Assistance Program

Second on our list is CalHFA’s School Teacher and Employee Assistance Program (STEAP). This program provides down payment assistance to first time homebuyers who qualify.

To sum up, this program is available to all teachers, school district employees, support staff and administrators. To be eligible you must be working at a K-12 California public or charter school. If you are an employee of a county or continuation schools or district offices you should be eligible as well.

3)CalHERO Teacher Home Loans

Next on our list is the CalHERO teacher home loan program. Benefits of this program include no income limits, reduced fees from lenders and discounted interest rates. In addition, down payments can be as low as 3.5%. To qualify, your credit score can be as little as 600.

Don’t worry if you have purchased before. This California home loan program is not only for first time home buyers! Moreover, it can also be combined or layered with other assistance programs.

4)MyCommunity California Teacher Mortgages

We conclude our list of California home loan options with the MyCommunity Teacher Mortgage (MCTM) program. The MCTM offers California educators access to a low down payment mortgage option.  Additionally, borrowers with this program can benefit from discounted Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) and more flexible down payment options.

This program is also not limited to first time home buyers. but does have a household income limit.  The current limit for borrowers is 140% of the county Area Median Income.

National Teacher Home Mortgage Programs

Of course, there are some national programs that you should consider as well.  Be sure to check out our list of the top 4 top teacher home mortgage programs for more home loan options for educators.

Explore Your California Teacher Home Loan Options Today!

In conclusion, when searching for teacher home loans in California do not forget to compare rates and other benefits. Again, our highest recommendation is to start your comparison shopping on LendingTree today HERE.

Little Passports is a subscription box service that offers four fun and creative ways to explore the world for a wide range of ages. Our Little Passports review includes a look at all four of their monthly subscriptions, including Early Explorers, World Edition, USA Edition and Science Expeditions. Is this subscription box service worth it?  We think so!

[Please note that we might share a small portion of the sales from the links on this page. We only share products that we truly love and recommend. Thank you for your kind support of The Moneywise Teacher! Now on to our review of Little Passports for you.]

Introduction to Little Passports

Each of the subscriptions starts with the arrival of a suitcase packed with various fun and engaging items.  After that, monthly packages will arrive that include more fun stuff, including activity booklets, stickers for the kids to decorate the suitcase, souvenirs and a whole lot more.

Without further ado, here’s our comprehensive Little Passports review, with details and recommendations for each of the four editions.

Little Passports – Early Explorers Review

For preschool-aged kids (3-5) Little Passports offers its Early Explorers subscription box. Early Explorers allows young children the chance to explore themes like dinosaurs, oceans or music.

During the first month of this subscription, your kids will receive a cute orange suitcase, a world map, a luggage tag, stickers, and an activity booklet.  After that, the ongoing monthly packages include toys, souvenirs, trading cards and much more!

“My son loves his package every month and so do I! The activities encourage his natural curiosity and excitement about the world around him. We can’t wait to see what all the other subscriptions have in store as he grows up!”

Little Passports – World Edition Review

This popular monthly subscription includes souvenirs and allows kids to learn about a new country every month through hands on activities.

Right away, kids will receive a suitcase, passport, wall-sized world map, collectible country coin and coin board, adorable animal squishies and much more.  Ongoing monthly packages will help kids discover a new country every month.  Each month the subscription packages include toys and souvenirs for each country, new collectible country coins, activity sheets, sticks and a whole lot more!

The Little Passports World Edition is recommended for children aged 6-10. Here’s what one mom had to say about this edition:

“When she sees the little white package in the mailbox she gets so excited and runs inside to get her luggage. This is so great at encouraging her thirst for knowledge and her interest in other cultures. Thank you for this!!”

Little Passports – USA Edition Review

This edition is recommended for ages 7-12 and helps children discover the USA with fun and educational puzzles, games and crafts. Among other goodies, this version comes with fun and hands-on activity journals for each state.

The first month of the Little Passports USA edition includes an impressive amount of items to help kids get started.  These items include a field guide, scratch book, wall-sized USA map, super fun photo scavenger hunt and more.

After that, two new states are featured each month with stickers, postcards and a 32 page state journal with a ton of activities for your kids.

“Cheaper than a round trip ticket to explore the great states and so much fun. These hands-on activities help keep them engaged and focused as they watch the world unfold before their very eyes!”

Little Passports – Science Expeditions Review

Little Passports Science Expeditions is a great subscription box service for any young scientist. Children who engage with this subscription can learn critical thinking and problem solving skills while also exercising their creativity.

Initially, your children will receive a very cool tote bag, a science lab notebook, a forensic science experiment kit, fingerprint analysis card and an engaging booklet with more games and activities.

After that, the ongoing monthly packages will allow your kids to solve real-life scientific mysteries every month!  Besides receiving hands-on science experiments every month, kids will engage with a 16-page comic book with bonus activities. One happy parent had this to say about Science Expeditions:

“My kids love learning science through hands-on activities.  Kids learn by touching and doing not by memorizing facts.  Little Passports breaks down complex ideas into kid-sized pieces, bringing concepts to life.  It really helps them relate to what they are learning.”

Video: “Little Passports Brings our Family Together!”

“It Brings Our Family Together” from Little Passports on Vimeo.

Little Passports Review – Conclusion

Little Passports has our highest recommendation.  For all of the subscriptions, you can subscribe on a monthly basis at a slightly more expensive per package rate or opt for a 6- or 12-month plan. There are also some add-on products — like dolls, books and activity games that you can purchase for an additional fee.  See all of Little Passports products here.

Buy Little Passports today with a $20 off coupon on any subscription.  Use the code EXPLORE at checkout.