Supporting Teachers Plus a Staples Sweepstakes to Win a Scholarship

I partnered with Staples in exchange for sharing this information and my honest opinion.

Did you know that an estimated 99.5 percent of all public school teachers use their own money to equip their classrooms? The cost spent is typically more than $400 per year and that comes out of teachers own pockets.

This year Staples and Katy Perry have teamed up to inspire the public to help classrooms in need by making a donation in Staples stores or online. The partnership is inspired by Staples long-standing commitment to supporting education and helping teachers bring learning to life for their students.

“I believe in education as a foundation for a great life, so I want to make sure that students across the country are inspired by their teachers and afforded every opportunity to realize their dreams,” said Katy Perry.

The new public service announcement (PSA) starring Katy Perry features DonorsChoose.org, which is a charity that has funded more than 700,000 classroom projects for teachers. DonorsChoose.org has helped more than 18 million students across the country bring much needed items to their classrooms. I have personally donated to DonorsChoose.org and helped my son’s preschool purchase learning tablets for kids with speech issues. Teachers just have to write up a proposal for what they need and then donations are accepted to fund the project. So for example the project I helped fund cost around $700 and multiple donors contributed to that amount for the school could get what they needed. It is really a great way to help a classroom and school further children’s learning experiences. Classrooms have received books, art supplies, field trips, tech gadgets and other resources to engage students.

Staples has donated $1 million (yes $1 million!) plus with contributions from customers in store and online, various projects from DonorsChoose.org will be funded just in time for back-to-season!

In addition to helping classrooms via DnorsChoose.org, Staples has launched a sweepstakes to win a $50,000 scholarship and a chance to meet Katy Perry. Beginning June 26 through September 10, fans who spend $25 or more in any Staples store will receive a unique entry code on their receipt to enter the sweepstakes online at Staples.com/StaplesForStudents.

One grand prize winner will win a $50,000 scholarship plus a trip for two to Los Angeles to meet superstar, Katy Perry. Four first prize winners and one guest each will also win air travel to Los Angeles, two nights stay and spending money to meet Katy Perry at the VIP Winners Celebration.

Entries must be submitted before September 10, 2016 at 11:59 PM ET and entrants must be 13 years or older. Visit Staples.com/StaplesForStudents for official rules.

Help a classroom near you by visiting your local Staples store or StaplesForStudents.org.