For decades, “Really Good Stuff” has been a household name in the education sector, a go-to catalog and online destination for teachers seeking everything from classroom furniture to curriculum support materials. With a commitment to providing innovative and high-quality products, the company has built a loyal following among K-8 educators. This comprehensive review will delve into the quality, range, and value of “Really Good Stuff,” offering a balanced perspective for teachers, parents, and school administrators.
A Teacher-Centric Approach to Product Development
Founded in 1992, Really Good Stuff has positioned itself as a brand that understands the unique challenges and needs of classroom teachers. A significant portion of their product development team consists of former educators, a fact that resonates through their product offerings. This teacher-centric approach is evident in the design and functionality of their materials, which are often praised for being practical, durable, and aligned with educational standards. The company, now part of the Excelligence family of brands, continues to focus on its core mission of supporting educators and enhancing the learning environment.
Product Landscape: From Organizational Lifesavers to Curriculum Enhancers
The “Really Good Stuff” catalog is extensive, covering a wide array of needs within an elementary and middle school setting. Their product lines can be broadly categorized into:
- Classroom Organization: This is arguably their most lauded category. Products like their iconic book and binder holders, durable storage bins, and versatile chair pockets are staples in many classrooms. Reviews from educators frequently highlight the sturdiness and thoughtful design of these items, which help manage the organized chaos of a busy classroom. Some of their organizational products, such as select storage units, feature sustainable materials like bamboo, a positive step towards environmental consciousness.
- Teacher Supplies and Classroom Management: From pocket charts and magnetic timers to reward systems and daily agendas, “Really Good Stuff” offers a plethora of tools to streamline classroom routines. These products are generally well-received for their functionality and ability to foster student independence.
- Educational Games and Activities: The company provides a range of games and hands-on activities designed to make learning more engaging. These often target specific skills in literacy and numeracy and are developed to be both fun and educational. While teacher feedback on these items is generally positive, independent, in-depth reviews from a parental or child-testing perspective are less common.
- Curriculum Resources and Family Engagement: “Really Good Stuff” offers a variety of supplemental curriculum materials, including readers’ theater scripts, science kits, and math manipulatives. They also have a growing selection of “Family Engagement Kits” designed to bridge the learning gap between school and home. This is a crucial area, particularly in the post-pandemic educational landscape, though more independent reviews are needed to fully assess their impact and ease of use for parents.
Quality and Durability: A Mixed Bag with a Notable Exception
A key selling point for “Really Good Stuff” is the purported quality and durability of its products. Many teachers attest to the longevity of their classroom organizers, with items reportedly withstanding years of use by young students. However, it is not without its blemishes.
A significant issue arose with a widespread recall of their magnetic dry erase boards due to a laceration hazard from the metal surface separating from the board. This event, which affected a large number of units sold over several years, underscores the importance of stringent quality control and is a critical consideration for any potential buyer. While the company has taken steps to address this, it remains a notable part of their history.
In terms of materials, while there is a move towards incorporating more sustainable options like bamboo, the majority of their products are made from plastics and other conventional materials. While generally durable, consumers seeking exclusively eco-friendly products may need to be selective.
The Price Point: An Investment in the Classroom
“Really Good Stuff” products are not always the most budget-friendly option on the market. When compared to general retailers or even some other educational suppliers like School Specialty, their prices can be higher. This is often justified by the specialized design and perceived durability of their products. Many educators view purchases from “Really Good Stuff” as an investment in their classroom infrastructure. The company does offer an “EZ Pay” option, allowing for installment payments, which can be a helpful feature for teachers managing their own classroom budgets.
In comparison to a competitor like Lakeshore Learning, which also has a strong retail presence and a focus on high-quality educational toys and furniture, “Really Good Stuff” appears to have a stronger emphasis on teacher-created resources and classroom organization for the K-8 market. Lakeshore, on the other hand, often appeals to both teachers and parents with a broader range of hands-on learning materials for early childhood.
Final Verdict: A Valuable, Albeit Imperfect, Partner for Educators
“Really Good Stuff” has earned its place as a trusted resource for the education community. Their deep understanding of teachers’ needs is reflected in a product line that is largely practical, durable, and educationally sound. Their classroom organization solutions, in particular, receive consistent praise and are a testament to their design philosophy.
However, the significant product recall serves as a crucial reminder that no brand is infallible, and consumers should remain vigilant about product safety. Furthermore, while the teacher-centric focus is a major strength, a greater volume of independent reviews from parents would provide a more holistic view of their “at-home” learning products.
For educators looking to invest in long-lasting organizational tools and thoughtfully designed curriculum support, “Really Good Stuff” remains a very strong contender. For parents, their offerings are worth exploring, though they may want to seek out more independent reviews before making a purchase. Ultimately, “Really Good Stuff” delivers on much of its promise, providing valuable tools that can, and do, make a real difference in the classroom.
