The Ultimate Back-to-School Procurement Checklist for Catholic Schools

The Ultimate Back-to-School Procurement Checklist for Catholic Schools

As summer break begins, Catholic school administrators are already preparing for the next academic year. Between classroom setup, supply ordering, facilities updates, and student health requirements, a successful school opening depends on planning ahead.

To help your team stay organized, we've created a back-to-school procurement checklist covering the key categories every Catholic school should review before students return to campus.

1. Evaluate Classroom Furniture Needs

One of the first areas schools should assess is classroom furniture. Over the course of a school year, student desks, chairs, tables, and storage solutions experience significant wear and tear.

Before placing orders, ask:

  • Are any classroom chairs or desks damaged beyond repair?
  • Do enrollment changes require additional seating?
  • Are collaborative learning spaces adequately furnished?
  • Do specialty areas such as STEM labs, libraries, or cafeterias need updates?

Many schools are also taking advantage of faster delivery timelines through our Quick Ship Furniture Program, which helps schools prepare for enrollment changes and last-minute replacement needs before the first day of school.

Helpful Resources:

2. Stock Essential Classroom Supplies

Teachers rely on a steady supply of classroom materials from day one. Ordering early helps avoid backorders and unexpected expenses.

Common classroom supply categories include:

  • Writing instruments
  • Markers and crayons
  • Construction paper
  • Notebooks and binders
  • Bulletin board materials
  • Arts and crafts supplies
  • STEM resources
  • Early childhood learning materials

Catholic schools can save both time and money by utilizing pre-negotiated pricing on commonly purchased educational supplies.

Helpful Resource:

3. Plan for High-Volume Paper Usage

Paper remains one of the most frequently purchased consumables in schools.

From lesson plans and worksheets to newsletters and administrative documents, schools often underestimate the volume of paper needed throughout the year.

Consider reviewing:

  • Copy paper inventory
  • Colored paper supplies
  • Cardstock needs
  • Administrative office usage
  • Teacher workroom stock

Purchasing through a dedicated paper program can help schools secure consistent pricing while reducing the administrative burden of sourcing products from multiple vendors.

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4. Review Health Office and Student Wellness Supplies

School health offices should be fully stocked before students arrive on campus.

A thorough review of health and safety supplies helps schools remain prepared for everyday incidents while supporting student wellness throughout the year.

Items commonly found on back-to-school health checklists include:

  • Bandages and first aid supplies
  • Eye wash solutions
  • Disposable gloves
  • Infection control products
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Diabetes care supplies
  • Emergency response materials

Completing this review before the start of the school year can help avoid disruptions once classes are underway.

Helpful Resource:

Download Your Back-to-School Resources

To make planning easier, we've gathered several resources that can help your school prepare for a successful year:

Review these resources early to ensure your classrooms, offices, and health spaces are fully prepared before students return to campus.

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Jun 8th 2026

CPS Insights