Previously, I spoke about problems I was having with student cleanup. After I purchased brushes on my own for students to purchase, I decided to approach my administration about charging a nominal fee for an art kit that students would either purchase themselves or purchase at the beginning of the year. They would be responsible for maintaining these supplies. She agreed that is something we should consider.

I have yet to follow-up with her, but I was wondering if anybody else does something like this? I remember attending a breakout session at the National Art Educators Convention where the speaker mentioned that she had students purchase a small kit for a drawing class she taught. I think it cost them about $3.00.

When I had students purchase a 2o-piece brush set from me that I got from Michael’s, it instilled in all but one of my students a sense of responsibility and ownership. I’ve only heard of one student who has not maintained his brushes. A few who’ve never painted before told me they plan to keep them (vs. selling them back to me for $2.00).

Have you ever charged for a small art kit that students are responsible for purchasing themselves or get from you the first day of class? Any thoughts? Do you agree with the concept? Disagree?