Back-to-School: Five Key Considerations for Sourcing Paper for the Education Industry

August 08, 2023

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Even in today’s technology-driven world, paper remains an essential component in educational settings. Here are five factors to keep top-of-mind when sourcing paper for the education industry for this coming school year.

Paper Quality

The quality of paper is of utmost importance in an educational environment. Choose paper that is durable and that won’t cause paper jams. For a reliable performance and a 99.99% Jam-Free Guarantee, opt for a paper like Boise X-9, which is engineered for consistent performance and excellent run-ability.

Environmental Impact

In today’s environmentally conscious world, opting for eco-friendly paper is a responsible choice. Look for papers certified by recognized eco-labels such as the Sustainable Forestry Initiative

(SFI), which is a North American standard, developed by professional foresters, conservationists, scientists, and others, to promote sustainable forest management. These types of certifications ensure that the paper is sourced from sustainably managed forests and adheres to strict environmental standards.

Paper Size and Weight

Consider the specific requirements of various educational materials when selecting paper size and weight. Lighter paper is a good option for everyday printing. Heavier paper, like Boise POLARIS, is ideal for printing reports, certificates and important documents. When it comes to size, letter size (8.5 × 11 inches) is the most commonly used in North America.

Printer Compatibility

Ensure that the paper you choose is compatible with the printers available in your educational institution. Some papers may be better suited for inkjet printers, while others are designed for laser printers. Using the paper designed for each printer type will prevent paper jams and optimize print quality.

Made in the USA

Buying products made in the U.S.A. keeps our economy growing, supports local communities, and limits environmental impact as it lessens travel in the supply chain. For decades, Boise Paper products have been made with pride at our U.S. mill, which employs over 500 men and women in safe and healthy work environments – keeping jobs and dollars in local economies.

This school year, take these factors into consideration when planning for your school’s paper needs, as choosing the right type of paper or papers can positively impact the goals of students and teachers.

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