Treasurer Nappier Unveils Initiative to Give Free School Supplies to Connecticut Teachers

HARTFORD, Conn., May 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- State Treasurer Denise L. Nappier announced today that the Connecticut Higher Education Trust (CHET), the state's direct-sold 529 College Savings Plan, will donate school supplies to the state's elementary schools for the 2012-2013 academic year.

The school supplies, geared toward grades K-6, include items such as:

• "Friday Folders" students use to take home assignments and information;
• Colorful bookmarks and posters;
• Growth charts; and
• Kindergarten orientation kits for parents.

"By providing these materials, we're showing our support for teachers who already do so much for Connecticut students who deserve the tools they need to perform well and succeed," Treasurer Nappier said. "These items are not only practical, but hopefully will help underscore the value of learning as a lifelong pursuit."

According to research conducted by the National School Supply and Equipment Association, public school teachers in the United States spent more than $1.3 billion of their own money on school supplies for the 2009-2010 school year.

The donated school supplies will also include information about the CHET direct-sold 529 college savings plan, and encourage teachers and parents to think about starting early to save for college. In addition, school principals can schedule free online webinars for their schools to help increase awareness among parents and guardians about the importance of saving for future college expenses.

"Saving today to pay for a college education tomorrow is one of the best investments that can be made in the future of our young people," Treasurer Nappier said.

To order free school supplies, school principals can go to CHET529forSchools.com or call 866-341-0793. Materials will be delivered mid-August. Supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

About CHET

The CHET (direct-sold) 529 college savings plan was established in 1997 by the Connecticut General Assembly, and is overseen by State Treasurer Denise L. Nappier as Trustee with TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing, Inc. as Program Manager.  As of May 2, 2012, CHET has grown to approximately $1.7 billion in assets in more than 108,000 accounts.  In January of 1999, when Treasurer Nappier first came to office, CHET had $18.5 million in assets and 4,000 accounts.

For more information about CHET, or to enroll online, go to: www.aboutchet.com or call the CHET customer service center at 1-888-799-2438. Spanish-speaking CHET representatives are available at 1-888-802-4717.

SOURCE CHET