News Local/State

Teachers Want To Keep Classroom Supplies Tax Deduction

 

The Illinois Education Association opposes the GOP tax cut plan on many levels, including the provision that ends the tax deduction for teachers who purchase classroom supplies. 

Right now, teachers can deduct up to $250 from their federal tax returns, if they buy classroom supplies out of their own pockets.

IEA spokeswoman Bridget Shanahan says National Education Association data estimates that 99% of the teachers in the country purchase classroom supplies on their own. And she says the NEA estimates that teachers spend an average of $500 to $1,000 a year on their students.

"Sometimes it’s books, paper, pencils, art supplies; sometimes it’s snacks or food for the classroom," Shanahan said.

Shanahan says the GOP tax cut plan is “another swipe at public education.” She adds that Congress “can do better” than the current tax legislation.