Middle School Supplies

Middle school school supplies can vary based on grade level and teacher, but a few of the most common required items include the following.

Writing Supplies

Junior high school supplies will always include writing supplies. No. 2 pencils, pens, highlighters, erasers, markers and more generally make the list. For 6th grade school supplies, writing tools that are more crafty in nature, like colored pencils, may also be required.

Binders and Binder Accessories

Middle school supplies often include binders. Binders come in a variety of sizes and feature either two or three rings to keep hole-punched materials easy to flip through and hard to lose. There are also accessories you can get for binders, including hole-punched folders, dividers, rulers and hole punches that can all be secured within the binder to keep your student organized and prepared. A hole-punched pencil pouch that can be kept in a binder helps to keep these items safely consolidated in one place.

Notebooks

Staples carries a wide variety of notebooks, such as wide-ruled, college-ruled, composition, multi-subject and more. All students need notebooks to take class notes, do homework assignments, keep tasks lists and fulfill other writing needs.

A Backpack

Middle school supplies require a backpack. There are more items for students to carry once they reach middle school, and more books as well. Opt for a backpack that properly fits your student and is comfortable and heavy-duty enough to carry all necessary items. Ensure your student will feel stylish carrying it by letting them browse the many different colors and designs Staples has to offer.

A Lunch Box

A lunch box is essential for any student who doesn’t purchase lunch from the school cafeteria. For all students who bring a packed lunch, a quality lunch box will not only help them transport their lunch and keep it from getting smushed, but also keep it temperature-regulated until they’re ready to eat.

Folders

Pocket folders are a product that you should have on any back to school shopping list for a middle schooler, as these are grades when homework and assignments increase for most students. Having a variety of folders can help to keep important school papers and assignments organized and easily accessible. Consider getting folders in different colors to coordinate them with different classes or types of assignments.

A Calculator

If your student is in need of a calculator, Staples carries a number of varieties that are perfect for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade students. While some middle schools allow students to use phone calculators, many still prefer students to have traditional calculators so phones don’t become a distraction. Since there are different types of calculators to choose from, check with your student’s math and science teachers to make sure you get the right one for the type of work they’ll be doing.

A Laptop Computer

With more advanced research assignments, papers, and group projects, laptop and notebook computers are becoming an important back to school supply for middle schoolers. If your student plans on transporting their laptop to and from school, a lightweight model that can be easily carried would be recommended. A computer with a fast processor and ample storage space would also be encouraged as the laptop may be used through middle school, high school, and beyond.

A Tablet

As an alternative to a laptop, a tablet or iPad can also be used to conduct research and finish school assignments. Tablets are loved by many students because they are easy to carry and can support many popular apps. If your middle school student has a passion for drawing, a tablet may be a great choice due to their advanced touch-screen and stylus capabilities.