Every year the supply lists come out from teacher and schools with the required school supplies your student needs for the year. Here's a list of the most essential items your High School student needs, even if they're not on the list.

 

1. Graphing Calculator
   - Sometimes this is on the supply list, and sometimes it isn't. A good quality graphing calculator will carry your high school student far into college. Look into refurbished models on reputable technology sites, or student re-swaps at local colleges if you want to save some money.
2. Clear Backpack
   - This seems like an obvious thing, but investing in a good quality backpack will get you at least a couple of years of wear and tear. Especially since kids seem to haul around huge amounts of text books and gear, you'll want something that can take the abuse. 
3.  Journal
   - Just buy a blank journal and hand it to your High School student and let them go with it. Some might keep a diary, others may sketch or doodle, and maybe use it for notes. Either way, it gives them an un-electronic way to express themselves and their thoughts or feelings.
4. Locker Accessories
   - The bigger and more crowded a school gets, the smaller lockers will get, or your student might have to share a locker with someone else. Buy a set of spring loaded locker shelves, and magnetic accessories like a mirror, and pen/pencil holder.
5. Re-Usable Water Bottle
   - If your student has a way to refill and carry water with them throughout the day, the less likely they will hit the vending machine for a can of soda. The new aluminum varieties keep the liquid cool, and look stylish.
6. Assignment Book/Day Planner
   - Even thought High School students seem to be plugged in to all the latest technology, nothing is better for remembering assignments like writing them down. Buy a durable assignment book with a daily assignment page to keep your student organized.