Students should be involved in their education. They can also change their world. I’m excited about filling my son’s locker with items from Staples because they are PRACTICAL. (The Designed by Students locker shelf below is so unique, I was like — why didn't some adult think of that?)

Staples worked with Ron Clark’s students (pictured above) and others around the country during this past school year. The result is a new line of back-to-school products designed by kids.

It is great to see companies empower students to think and contribute to the world. Two of my favorite items are the floating locker shelves and the Big Pen Pencil Case. (Both are pictured at the bottom of this post.)

Watch the Students Pitch Their Products

The video from launch day is inspirational. (Embedded below.) Some of the key points he mentioned:

• The proposal and prototyping process. This is an essential part of design.
• The authentic audience. How can we help students work with local companies in this way to bring designs to the marketplace. When Staples did this, they are showing other businesses and leading with their actions that students can be partners in the design process. Talk about empowering students! When you take your ideas to local or large companies – share this.
• The pitch. In the video, you’ll see students pitching the products they designed. The art of the “elevator pitch” and proposing the awesome lap desk, the Big Pen, binders without rings, the cool locker shelf, and a redesigned backpack. (Watch the video!)

The Floating Locker Shelves

These floating locker shelves are going in my 8th graders locker.

The Big Pen Pencil Case

You can get all kinds of pens to go in this pencil case, but here’s the thing – the pencil case IS a pen and IS a pencil sharpener. For the kids who forget things, this is a HUGE step forward. Another must-have for my son.

Check out the whole Staples Back to School Line at: www.staples.com/backtoschool

See my favorite office supplies and how I use them in my classroom at: Top 10 Cool Things to Buy at Staples

Tips for minimizing teacher stress

• Discover 10 stress-busting secrets for healthy teachers. What simple routines will help you handle the stress?
• Simple advice for coping with stress at work.
• Learn tips to help you deal with difficult colleagues and students (even those who "hate" you -- yes it is possible!)

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