The new year is officially here, and with it comes a time for reflection, resolutions, and thanks to donor support for education, resources for our teachers. At Hillsborough Education Foundation, we know our dedicated educators would rather purchase supplies out of their own pockets than let one of their students go without. That is why we developed our Teaching Tools Resource Center (TTRC), where teaching supplies for teachers in Hillsborough County are made available at no cost and without the stress of out-of-pocket expenses.
What Is the TTRC?
The Teaching Tools Resource Center is a program at Hillsborough Education Foundation created with the mission to help support teachers and student success throughout the county. By providing free school supplies to distribute to students who need them most, the center helps create stronger, more supportive learning environments with easy access to the teaching supplies for teachers in Hillsborough County.
At the TTRC, we invite full-time instructional staff at Hillsborough County Public Schools to shop for FREE school supplies two times per semester to distribute to students who need them most. Teachers can pick up school supplies such as pencils, paper, notebooks, crayons, backpacks, and more. For a full list of available items, check out the TTRC flyer.
With these materials ready and available through donor support for education, the new year can start strong with stocked classrooms, ensuring students can stay focused, engaged, and ready to learn.
How to Get Started
Getting started with the Teaching Tools Resource Center is a quick and easy process designed to help teachers fit shopping into their busy schedules. With just a couple of steps, eligible educators can access free classroom supplies and start the year feeling supported and prepared:
Step 1: Review the Policies and Eligibility Form, then visit the TTRC teacher portal to create a log in using your district email and Lawson number.
Step 2: Once signed on, schedule a shopping appointment for the current semester and choose from one of two fulfillment options:
- Schedule a Store Visit: Select a 60-minute in-person shopping time.
- Deliver to My School: This option is available for select Title I schools in outlying areas. Teachers can shop online and have supplies delivered through school mail, making it a convenient option many educators may not realize is available.
Step 3: If shopping in person, visit the Teaching Tools Resource Center at 2306 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33607 during your scheduled time. The TTRC is open Mondays from 2–6 p.m., Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2:30–5:30 p.m., and select Saturdays from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Remember to bring your photo ID with you every time you shop.
For more details and additional instructions, you can find more information on the TTRC flyer.
The Importance of the TTRC for Teachers
Thanks to our supporters who donate to education in Hillsborough County, the Teaching Tools Resource Center is able to support both teachers and students in this new year. With free access to essential school supplies, the TTRC is able to reduce financial strain on educators while making sure students still have the tools they need to succeed throughout the school year.
When classrooms are filled with the necessary tools and resources required for learning, students feel supported and encouraged throughout their educational journey. At the same time, teachers are empowered and better able to focus on what matters most: teaching, mentoring, and inspiring students to reach toward their goals and futures.
To get started today, visit the TTRC teacher portal and book your appointment to begin the new year prepared and supported.
