AYDEN, NC (WITN) – One week from today will be the first day of school in Pitt County and many other eastern counties.

Although this time brings with it many emotions such as nervousness and excitement, according to DataSembly, the cost of school supplies has increased due to inflation concerns, leading to growing feelings of anxiety.

Dr. Michael Casey, principal of Ayden Elementary School, says, “The cost of school supplies has certainly increased.”

DataSembly reports that a shopping cart containing just 15 typical school supply items costs $60.41.

Cameron Smith, a 12th grader at Ayden Grifton High School, is tackling the problem by creating the Supplies to Shine program.

“I know the challenges that come with everything getting more expensive these days, and I don’t think parents should have to choose between food on the table and school supplies. The idea originally came from my mom. She’s been a teacher here for as long as I can remember. I decided that we would have a school supply drive where students can pick up free school supplies here at open house,” Smith told WITN.

Parents and students have access to items such as folders, markers and notebooks.

Smith says he is passionate about ensuring every student’s success with this program. “It means a lot to me because education is the foundation of this country and I think for our country to move forward, every child needs to have a good education. That starts with school supplies and making sure they have everything they need when they walk in the door.”

Casey says he’s excited about the impact Smith will have. “I remember opening that box of crayons as a kid and pulling out the glue stick… It really warms my heart to see other kids have the kind of experience I had as a student. With the school supply drive, he’s going to have a lasting impact on those students.”

The “Supplies to Shine” program at Ayden Elementary School will take place at the open house on August 22nd from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

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