“You will not believe Coach Smith’s room,” a former student ran enthusiastically into my classroom to share the news. Coach Smith had been pranked.

It wasn’t just any prank; in fact, it was the most elaborate prank I had ever seen successfully executed inside the walls of Chamblee Charter High School. Only, this time the students weren’t the guilty party.

Now, I am not one to suggest that pranking among professionals should become common practice. In this case, however, the extravagant lengths that teachers took to prank this particular mentor of mine was totally worth it. (Sorry Coach.)

There are a few things you need to know about Coach Smith. First, this guy is an excellent teacher. I have had the pleasure of sitting in on a few lectures that Coach Smith prepared for his AP Lang students. I watched as students intently participated in discussion and jumped at any and every chance each had to contribute.

Second, he will fight for your integrity no matter the cost. He was our English department head and fielded many unpleasantries without transferring his frustration onto us. He maintained order and encouraged true relationships among the staff. The world of education needs more Coach Smiths.

Last, Coach Smith is not is one for decorating a classroom with motivational posters (Hang in there!); primary colors; and stickers with encouraging messages. It isn’t his thing. He is one to stick to what he knows and he does one helluva job. That is why this particular prank was so insanely awesome.

I have never seen Coach Smith angrier than I did that day. While this may be a positive learning environment for some, it brought more hostility than anything else. I tried and failed at muffling the laughter that erupted from my gut. I swiftly left as not to poke the bear.

Here is the thing: whether you’re a Coach Smith or Susie Smilesalot, you’re going to dip into your pockets to maintain a positive learning environment. As you start to prepare to go back to school, here are a few deals to save you some moolah, or even make you some cash.

Three free up and up 2 pocket portfolio (Up to 6 total): These are a GREAT item for the classroom. I use my two pocket portfolios to hold my standards; which I have typed and printed with velcro to attach to the board. That way, I don’t have to write each standard every day on the board. I simply pick and stick. I have each portfolio color coded: red is reading literature, orange is reading informational text, yellow is writing, green is language, blue is speaking and listening. You can also use these as folders for students to turn in an assignment and color code your classes. That way, you don’t sit with too many assignments before you grade and return. These are invaluable!

Two Mead one-subject notebooks and you’ll get $0.62 back! These are great for recording day-to-day to-do lists, making notes during student presentations; or documenting student behavior. I am an admitted notebook junkie. I love that my addiction could potentially make me money!

Staples back to school deals: What I love about Bargains with Brittanie is that she does the coupon work for you. I am REALLY new to couponing and I am still not certain how to do it well enough to actually make the time spent clipping worth the savings at the register. She has a few more money savers at different vendors. It is worth checking out!

Tax Free Weekend AUGUST 1-2: Don’t miss this for your back to school clothing shopping. Set a budget, find the deals and save your shopping for the 1-2 of August. You can save plenty of cheddar by skirting Uncle Sam.

This year, I am not prepping for the classroom, but it doesn’t mean I won’t miss the smell of fresh and FREE school supplies. Really, is there anything more intoxicating?

Next week, look for a re-visiting of Teacher Time Savers. This time, the tips will be for men. This will be my second guest post by none other than Coach E. I am pretty sure Coach Smith won’t talk to me for weeks after I published the prank heard round the Chamblee world.