Schools
What's The Worst Thing About Back-to-School in Salisbury?
A parent says buying new clothes is a challenge, although a recent survey says they'll likly spend less this year
It's mid-August and back-to-school shopping season is in full swing. Students will be returning to classes in the Salisbury School District two weeks from Tuesday.
We asked parents on the about the worst thing they face concerning back-to-school season.
Becky Derr Foehrkolb responded: "I think the best thing for the kids is getting new clothes. I think the worst thing for the parents is buying the new clothes."
Becky's probably not alone in that sentiment, but regional and national trends say parents are spending less on back-to-school needs.
A recent survey by the National Retail Federation, families with school-age children will spend an average $634.78 on apparel, shoes, supplies and electronics, down from $688.62 last year. Total spending on back-to-school is expected to reach $26.7 billion.
Total back-to-school and back-to-college spending combined will reach $72.5 billion.
Salisbury School District parents do have an advantage in one sector to the back-to-school shopping dilemma. The school district's website provides a list of supplies middle schoolers will need to start the year, along with other key information.
A recent Patch article covered 10 helpful tips to get ready for the school year.
Finally, to get you in the shopping spirit, Patch Field Editor Tom Coombe unearthed this beauty of a video on YouTube -- my personal favorite for years -- the 1996 Staples commercial of the gleeful Dad prancing around the store buying supplies in front of his glum children.
What's your biggest back-to-school headache? Tell us in the comments.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.