COLUMBUS, Ohio-Many teachers across the U.S., like Emily Ross from Columbus and Kate Nicholson from Arizona, regularly spend their own money to furnish and equip their classrooms. Ross, for example, buys items like construction paper and books, often finding deals at garage sales and thrift stores. She estimates spending around $1,000 per year on her classroom. Nicholson shares deals and discounts for teachers through her popular Instagram account, “The Discount Teacher,” helping others save money on classroom supplies.