I can imagine how frustrating that must be. Esp. when the kids run out of things so early in the year! I thought that running low by the end of term 3 was bad!
It is such a pity that there just isn't enough money at schools for basic supplies for the children. You shouldn't have to fork out extra money when you have already paid so much! I even have to get the kids to buy tissues for the classroom because they aren't supplied. It is silly really! I would buy them myself but my kids go through a box every few days and I simply can't afford it.
I guess that is why we teachers "appear" to strike so much. Not only are we underpaid, but we can't provide the best education we would like because of lack of funds. It's frustrating from all angles!
I just hope that whatever gov't gets voted in at the election does more to support public schools. Goodness knows we need it!