It's time to graduate from a shiny red apple and a few yellow pencils. This school year, we're going big when it comes to giving back to local teachers.

We asked our readers who teach what was on the top of their wishlist before Polk County Public Schools open on Friday, Aug. 11. Responses came from educators at Lakeland High School, Eagle Lake Elementary School, Pathways School of Excellence, and beyond.

The big winner? School supplies. No surprises there, but with many teachers stocking up their classrooms out of their own pockets, No. 2 pencils and notebooks add up.

This year, teachers are also on the hunt for flexible seating. Think: Unique seating like balance balls and stools that make learning more engaging.

Helping teachers makes a difference for students. | Photo by Reader Meghan W.

Luckily for us, many local educators have made online wishlists full of items we wish our classrooms had back in our school days. Just click the links below to shop each educator's full list, and the gift will be sent directly to them:

STEM robotics kit and reusable notebooks, Yvonne S.
Printer and classroom decor, Robbin H.
Classic books and eagle costume, Brianne P.
Science lab kits and pretend play costumes, Cori M.
Tambourines and music education books, Meghan W.
Flex seating and building toys, Heather G.
Auditory memory flash cards and games, Kimberly M.
Jigsaw puzzles and Montessori toys, Mark G.
Scientific calculators and binders, Carmen C.
Posters and bulletin board decor, Jasmine B.

Looking for something more personal? We also asked teachers what thoughtful gifts they would love to receive from their students. While we might have said a free vacation, many said they would love a heartfelt card or drawing they can keep throughout their careers.