No matter how the global economy is doing, it's always important for teachers to be budget-conscious. Unfortunately, most of us have to spend some of our own money each year in order to stock our classrooms and adequately supply our students with the learning tools they need.

So, instead of breaking the bank, why not follow at least a few of these practical money-saving tips as you set up your classroom this year?

I'd love to know how you stretch your pennies in the classroom. Maybe I can add your ideas to the list. Leave your suggestions in the comments section of this post. Thanks!

U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan has some choices to make on how best to spend the $100 billion education stimulus package. Consider this: Did you know that 12% of the country's high schools make up almost half of the nation's dropouts?

Shocking, but informative. A New York Times Editorial today outlines and supports a few ideas for how the stimulus money can give our citizens the most "bang for the buck."

What do you think should be the top priorities for education stimulus spending?

Did you encounter conflict and drama when you entered the teacher's lounge last school year? Nothing can drag you down like tension with a colleague. Avoiding such drama will obviously help you enjoy your job more, but it could even translate into more effective teaching in the classroom.

Most of us can relate to this problem, so that's why I created this list of tips for creating a drama-free bubble around yourself on campus. Even if the rest of your colleagues are getting caught up in the latest scandal, you can still avoid it.

What are your best tips for staying out of behind-the-scenes interpersonal conflict?

There are so many things to consider when setting up an elementary school classroom to start a new school year. Where to place the teacher's desk, how to decorate the bulletin boards, how to incorporate technology into your space, and so much else!

But just because there's a lot to do doesn't mean you need to feel overwhelmed. Instead, use this step-by-step checklist to help you accomplish one key task at a time. The time you spend strategically organizing your room now will pay dividends when students show up in the Fall!