Example list
Ms. Rivera's Grade 3 classroom
- Dry-erase markers, 12-pack Gifted
- Tissues, 6-pack$10
- Class set of chapter books$45
- Wobble cushion for reading corner Gifted
- Hand sanitizer refills$14
Why teachers share a wishlist
Plenty of teachers spend their own money on classroom supplies, and most parents would gladly help if they knew exactly what was needed. A list closes that gap. Instead of a vague call for "anything you can spare", parents see specific items, know the price, and can pick what fits their budget.
Using a universal list means you aren't tied to one retailer. You might want storage bins from Target, picture books from a local bookshop and science kits from a specialist site. They can all sit on one page, and parents can buy each one wherever they prefer, even in person.
It also stops duplicates. Each item on a GishFy list can only be gifted once: when a parent taps Gift, the next person who tries is told it's taken. Since a gift can only be claimed once, list multi-packs as a single item, and add separate lines for things you need more than once, like "Tissues (September)" and "Tissues (January)".
You stay in control of who sees it. Link-only lists stay off search engines and can only be opened by people with the link, which works well for a class group. Check your school's policy on classroom donations and gifts before sharing, as rules differ between districts.
Set up your classroom list in 3 steps
- 1
Add what you need
Paste a link from any store, with a price and priority. Mark must-haves as high priority.
- 2
Set it to link-only
Choose link-only privacy, so only people with the link can open it.
- 3
Share it with parents
Post the link in your newsletter, class app or group chat. Parents view it with no account.
What to put on a classroom wishlist
Start with what runs out, then add what would make a real difference to your room.
Everyday supplies
The things that run out every single term.
- Dry-erase markers and erasers
- Pencils, sharpeners and glue sticks
- Tissues, wipes and hand sanitizer
- Sticky notes and index cards
- Printer paper and colored card
- Crayons, colored pencils and scissors
Books and learning
Fill out the classroom library and add variety.
- Chapter books at different levels
- Picture books on diverse topics
- Math manipulatives
- Science experiment kits
- Educational board games
- Headphones for the listening center
Classroom comforts
Small upgrades that make the room work better.
- Reading corner cushions and rugs
- Flexible seating, like wobble stools
- Storage bins and labels
- Classroom timer and clock
- Fidget tools for calm corners
Special projects
Bigger items where parents can chip in together.
- Class pet supplies
- Garden beds and seeds
- Field trip contributions
- Art and craft project materials
- Document camera or small speaker
Gifts for the teacher
Parents often ask this too. Teacher Appreciation Week 2027 is May 3 to 7.
- Coffee shop or bookstore gift cards
- Insulated tumbler
- Comfortable lanyard or tote
- Handwritten notes from the class
- Class group gift toward something special
Getting parents to use your list
Share at the start of each term
Parents are already shopping for school supplies in August, and a second nudge in January catches what's run out by then.
Keep prices varied
Include items under $5 as well as bigger ones, so every family feels able to help, and make it clear that giving is completely optional.
Be specific
"Expo chisel-tip markers, black" saves you from a pack of fine-tips that won't work on your board. A store link is even better.
Thank people as a class
A note in the newsletter or a class-made card goes a long way. It also reminds other parents the list exists.
Use a separate list for each class
If you teach several classes or run a club, one list per group makes it easy to share with the right parents.
Frequently asked questions
Still unsure? These are the questions we hear most.
Is a classroom wishlist free to make?
Yes. Making and sharing a GishFy list is free, for teachers, parents and PTAs alike.
Do parents need an account?
Parents can view the list from the link without signing up. To mark an item as gifted, so nobody else buys it, they need a free GishFy account.
Can I add items from stores other than Amazon?
Yes. Add a link from any online store, or add an item without a link so parents can buy it wherever they like.
Can I keep the list private to my class?
Yes. Choose link-only, and only people with the link can open it. It won't appear in search results.
What if I need more than one of something?
Each item can only be gifted once, so list it as a multi-pack, or add a separate line for each one. For example, "Tissues, 6-pack (fall)" and "Tissues, 6-pack (spring)".
How do supplies reach the classroom?
That's up to you. Most teachers ask parents to send items in with their child, or to ship them to the school office. Include this in your message, and check your school's rules on donations.
Give parents an easy way to help
Set up your list once, share one link, and stop buying classroom supplies out of your own pocket.