Can we talk about school as a workplace for a minute? We put in just as many (if not more) hours as the average worker, so all we’re asking for are some basic items to meet our survival needs. Here are just a few things that would make everyone who frequents the staff lounge, kitchenette or supply room just a little happier and more productive. (Psst … go ahead and print this for your principal!)

1. A Coffeemaker Capable of Producing Palatable Java: Save everyone from the lukewarm, subpar brew produced by that ancient stained Mr. Coffee and replace it with this Keurig Office Pro Brewing System. This single-cup coffeemaker will be beloved by everyone, especially those who have been springing for a $4.97 latte from the drive-through on the way to school.

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2. Eco-Friendly Coffee Pods: The Ekobrew Brew and Save Reusable Pods will appeal to staff members’ eco-sensibilities as they cut back on waste generated by single-use disposable coffee pods. Plus these economical contraptions enable frugal coffee drinkers to use whatever ground beans are on sale.

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3. Mints to Stave Off Coffee Breath: Coffee breath, the teacher’s occupational hazard. Give everyone the gift of fresh breath by filling a big bowl with effective mints like Lifesavers Wint-O-Greens.

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4. A Speaker System You Can Actually Use: Isn’t it funny that schools today usually rely on CD players for music, when the last time most of us purchased an honest-to-goodness CD was in 2004? A smartphone speaker and radio combo like the Pyle Audio Docking Portable Speaker System makes it possible to actually share the new Adele album with your co-workers or turn up the soothing sounds of NPR in the lunchroom.

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5. Germaphobe and Neatnik Pacifying Disinfecting Wipes: With multiple lunch periods at your school, that table in the staff kitchen sees a whole lot of meals in a typical day. Some effective and fresh-smelling wipes like these Seventh Generation Disinfecting Wipes will kill germs and eliminate all evidence of salads, yogurts and the fourth-grade cluster’s Thai takeout.

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6. Pencils That Don’t Break Off in the Sharpener: We’re always, always running out of pencils, and when we find a box in the closet, it may be that dreaded discount brand that always break off in the sharpener. The way to our heart is with a bulk pack of good ol’ Ticonderoga #2’s.

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7. A Big Stash of Really Good Chocolate: Some days nothing other than a big mouthful of chocolate will do to heighten spirits and blood sugar. A big box of Lindt Lindor Chocolate Truffles can make even the most manic Monday a whole lot more manageable.

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8. Granola Bars to Tide You Over When You Stay Extra Late Prepping Lessons: Whether the staff is paleo, vegetarian, vegan or just plain old hangry (hungry + angry), everyone can appreciate a Kashi Trail Mix Bar. When snack needs attack, these will soothe the savage schoolteacher.

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9. Instant Noodles Reminiscent of Your College Days: Students aren’t the only ones who forget their lunches. Save staff members a trip to the hamburger stand on hectic days with a flat of Cup O Noodles. They’ll fill in for lunch in a pinch and also bring back memories of college.

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10. A Party Kit for Celebrating Staff B-Days: A reply-all “Happy Birthday” chain is kind. A cake cutting in the kitchen? Even sweeter. But to really show your coworkers the b-day love, pick up a reusable Birthday Party Decoration Kit. Hey, taping up these streamers and signs is easier than remembering to sign a group card.

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11. Pinterest-Worthy Inspirational Artwork: We all pore over Pinterest to create the best bulletin boards in our classrooms, but the teachers’ room is a dismal decor desert. A simple set of inspiring art like these “Don’t Forget” Inspirational Art Cards will add some whimsy to the walls.

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Taken from our friends at We are Teachers. Written by Jessica McFadden.

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