Oklahoma parents try to beat the back-to-school price hike

Back-to-school costs are up 3% this year. One mom of four spent over $300 on supplies but says it’s worth it for the excitement of a new school year.

Q: Why is back-to-school shopping such a big deal this year?

A: The school supply list keeps getting longer, and prices are higher than in previous years—up around 3%, according to experts.

Q: What makes shopping harder for you this year?

A: "Each child has a separate school supply list," Sarah McPhail said.

Q: How do you handle the back-to-school rush?

A: "Wait to the last minute and hope that everything is not picked over."

Q: Where did she end up shopping?

A: Staples.

Q: Did she notice a big price jump from last year?

A: Not too much overall, but a few items stood out for their high prices. McPhail said, “Some of the Sharpie stuff was pretty high."

Q: What was her total cost?

A: $301.43 for 3 out of her 4 kids’ school supplies.

Q: Was it worth it?

A: "The kids get really excited with all of the supplies, you know. Each year, it's just fun to kind of get organized, and it's the first step to going back-to-school."

Q: How can families save money on school supplies?

A: Shop early, compare prices, and split bulk items with other families.