In the STEM teachers group on Facebook, this topic comes up again and again. I have created this page as reference. This is not a one-size-fits-all solution but I hope you find it useful anyway. Find even more recommendations on this page with my favorite STEM toys, tools, and more:

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Ask for donations from parents and your local community, including places of business. Consider hosting a STEM drive where you ask for specific items that get a lot of use, such as:

index cards

tape (clear, masking, and duct)

rubber bands

paper

LEGOs

cups, plates, and plastic cutlery

Grab this free download with an editable shopping list of basic STEM supplies:

Everything listed above PLUS any combination of the items below to meet your budget.

Anything listed above PLUS any combination of the items below to meet your budget.

Anything listed above PLUS any combination of the items below to meet your budget.

Anything listed above PLUS any combination of the items below to meet your budget.