Aug 4, 2009 8:27 pm US/Central
Many Parents On A Back-To-School Budget
by Selena Hernandez
NORTH TEXAS (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―
Another school year is quickly approaching and saving cash is on the minds of many parents this summer. "We do what we can and save where we can," said Clarinda Sandoval. The North Texas mother started her shopping last month.
It's the same money saving mantra shared by others who are on a back-to-school budget. "We're bargain shoppers," mother Trina Thomas said of her family. "We just try to find all the good sales and go from there."
In addition to pens, paper and notepads, pinching pennies is on the top of everyone's list. At a Target in Arlington, TXA 21 News found cash-conscience parents stocking up on cheap supplies. We're told the store started its school sale back in early July.
"It's something we do every year – get started early in the city for people to take advantage of the early sales and big savings and get going with their school shopping lists," explained Jeremy Wortsman with Target.
Yet, heading back to class means more than just the basics; it also includes shots and physicals. John Peter Smith Hospital has 15-school based health clinics, across Tarrant County. Visits to the clinics can be as little as $5, for those without insurance.
"I can do everything from immunizations, to a well child, to a sick visit – it covers everything," said certified physician Erin Baker.
Experts advise parents to save money by: sticking to a list, whether it is for supplies or clothes; scan weekly ads and circulars for special sales; and shop resale stores for additional bargains.
"I started early – that's a good thing for me," says Thomas. "I try to start before the last minute and then I wait around for the tax-free weekend."
The Texas sales tax holiday is August 21-23, just in time for the first day of school.
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