TEACHER INSIGHT SURVEY 2026

Every Classroom Has a Story. Teachers Know It Best.

More than 7,400 educators shared what they’re seeing in classrooms every day—from the barriers students face to the resources that help them feel prepared, included and ready to learn.

Minnesota Teachers smiling at Kids In Need Foundation Thanks a Million Teacher Appreciation Event

A single teacher can impact more than 3,000 students over the course of a career.

Every year, Kids In Need Foundation asks educators to share what they’re experiencing in their classrooms. Their insights help shape our programs, partnerships and initiatives so we can better support students and teachers in underserved schools.

“When communities invest in teachers and students, everyone thrives.”
— Elementary school teacher, Florida

Teacher playing a game for free school supplies at Kids In Need Foundation Thanks a Million Teacher Appreciation Event.

“What do you wish people outside of education knew
about the supply challenges teachers and students face?”

“This allows me to create a more resourced, welcoming classroom environment and provide meaningful experiences that boost student morale and belonging. It’s a powerful reminder that when communities invest in teachers and students, everyone thrives.” — Elementary school teacher in Florida


“At the core, supply challenges are really about equity. When schools and classrooms don’t have consistent access to materials, it’s students who feel it the most. If I had to sum it up: supplies aren’t extras, they’re essential tools for learning, belonging, and opportunity. ”
— Teacher, Minnesota

The Right Tools Change How Students Experience School

Access to school supplies remains a barrier for many students—at school and at home. Even with these challenges, teachers, schools, and community partners continue working together to ensure students have the tools they need to fully participate in learning every day

Key Student Experience Statistics

More than Half

of students begin the school year without all required supplies

64%

of students lack adequate supplies at home to complete schoolwork

64%

of students run out of supplies by the second semester and cannot easily replace them

Schools Meet More Than Academic Needs

Schools are helping students access essential resources that support their health, confidence, and ability to fully participate in their education. These resources help students feel supported, included, and ready to learn. Insights like these directly inform Kids In Need Foundation’s programmatic and partnership growth—driving expanded offerings such as hygiene and social-emotional learning kits through RISE and Second Responder support, as well as increased access to books and literacy resources in Teacher Resource Centers. As teachers continue identifying evolving student needs, KINF continues innovating to meet them.

Key Student Needs Statistics

40%

Of educators said most of their students rely on school access to hygiene items

3 out of 4

Educators said that most of their students rely on school to access reading-level appropriate books

28%

Of Educators reported that most of their students rely on school access to menstrual products