Consumers feel the pinch while preparing for school!

Even though there are several weeks left before school starts many persons have begun the preparation process.

The crowds of shoppers are determined to get the best value for their money as they go from store to store.  Often there are sales targeted at back to school shopping.

Several bookstores have specials, such as offering discounts to customers who spend a selected amount. There are also discounts on khaki uniforms and socks especially when they are bought in bulk.

Fairs

There are also back to school fairs which are organized to assist with back to school expenses.  One such fair was held on the grounds of  Jamaica College on July 25, 2015.

The fair housed several booths at which consumers could purchase items for back to school.  The best part of the day, in my opinion, was the exchange of books.

Books are a big concern as they are often one of the most expensive part of the school preparations.
While workbooks have to be purchased, textbooks that are used are a good option for easing the budget.

Parents whose children had books they no longer needed were able to sell them and get new books for their new grade. The exchange is certainly a good idea as the parents were able to set prices and were able to offer a price to prospective buyers and were open to negotiations.

Fees

Although school fees are increasing, there is still a lot of flexibility if parents speak up to the school’s administration.  Instead of waiting to be summoned for unpaid fees, parents can approach the administration and request a payment plan.

It is important that the payment plan is one in which you must ensure that you can honour.

Tax free?

While the option of tax free weekends are not apart of the Jamaican experience, they have certainly gotten it right!

Right before school, several states in America have offered consumers no tax on school supplies.  The annual promotion saves shoppers an estimated $3 million in state taxes and any applicable local taxes on items as varied as crayons and composition books to blankets and belt buckles, according to the state Department of Revenue.

Some merchants will even offer drop-off points for donations of back-to-school supplies.

What a great idea!

Even though the tax free option is not available locally why not encourage others with a surplus to donate school supplies to those who are struggling?

Although some donations are made to select consumers through various promotions locally by some corporate entities, I think that more can be done!

What’s your take? Let me hear from you!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley

Gleaner Online writer

Tags: back to school costs