School supply prices decrease slightly compared to last year, data shows
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- As the back-to-school season ramps up, one longtime local business is working hard to support teachers, parents, and students.
Liza Huereque and her family have owned Eraser Dust Educational Supplies in West El Paso for over 40 years.
“It’s a lot of preparation to make sure we’re ready for our teachers,” Huereque said. “A lot of businesses have had prices go up, and we try to keep our prices the same. We always give discounts to our teachers, to military, to our first responders.”
Beyond school essentials, the store also stocks items like toys and puppets, helping parents get kids excited about the return to class.
“I might close the doors and go home, but I’m always thinking about my clients,” Huereque added.
While data from Capital One Shopping Research shows shoppers across the country are paying slightly less on average for school supplies, UTEP Economics Professor Tom Fullerton says shoppers at larger retail chains may experience price hikes.
“When the supply chains were disrupted in 2021 and 2022, the prices of most school items increased by more than 20%,” he explained. “Most products are still at least 20% higher than what they were in 2019.”
Teachers who often purchase supplies out of pocket are finding ways to help ensure students have what they need.
“A lot of our teachers end up getting some extra supplies for the students—and even little things to welcome the students,” Elementary School Counselor Jeannette Moreno said.
Capital One estimates that for one K-12 student, supplies cost $586 on average.
Meanwhile, in 2024, the average overall household budget for back-to-school shopping was $874.68, a slight decrease from $890 in 2023.
Research shows families are spending most of their budget on electronics and computer-related equipment.
Families looking to save money on supplies can participate in Texas tax-free weekend, taking place Aug. 8-10.
Items that qualify can be purchased tax-free from a Texas store or from an online or catalog seller doing business in Texas.
A detailed list of qualifying items can be found on the Texas Comptroller website.
