For Teachers – FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

For Teachers planning to shop
at the MTR Free Store

The MTR Free Store is located at 
400 West Cummings Park, Suite 6250
Woburn, MA  01801

Who can shop the MTR Free Store?
Full-time classroom teachers at Title 1 Public Elementary Schools (K-5 or K-8) and Title 1 Public Middle Schools (6-8) meeting in-person and located in the MTR Service Area are invited to shop the MTR Free Store.

How long do I have to shop?
There is no time limit; teachers are encouraged to take their time to shop. Most teachers spend 45 minutes to an hour at the store. 

I teach at a virtual academy in the MTR Service Area. Am I eligible to shop?
No. We do not serve teachers at virtual academies.

I teach at a Title 1 Charter School in the MTR Service Area. Am I eligible to shop?
No. We do not serve teachers at Public Charter Schools.

I am a classroom paraprofessional/aide or instructional specialist at a Title 1 Public Elementary School in the MTR Service Area. Am I eligible to shop?
No. We define a full-time teacher as a teacher who has their own classroom. 

When is the MTR Free Store open?
The MTR Free Store is open by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 9am to 2pm.  Special summer hours may also be posted. 

Do I have to have an appointment to shop the MTR Free Store?
YES! To help ensure a positive experience for everyone, teachers must have an appointment to shop the MTR Free Store. Staff are only present at the MTR Free Store when we have appointments booked.

A teacher at my school already has an appointment to shop. Why can’t I just come with them?
We encourage you to book an appointment during the same time slot as your colleague. 

How long will I have to shop?
We book appointments every 30 minutes to manage the check-in process and give everyone time and space to shop the store. Most teachers take 45 minutes to an hour to browse our shelves and make selections. 

A group of teachers want to shop at the same time. Is this possible?
YES! The system will allow up to 10 teachers to book in for the same time slot. For larger groups, we encourage you to book consecutive appointments and then come together at the earliest time.  We will accommodate your group.

How do I complete the MTR Free Store Shopping Agreement?
The MTR Free Store Shopping Agreement is part of the form you complete to book your shopping appointment. 

Do I have to complete the MTR Free Store Shopping Agreement every time I shop?
YES! This agreement must be completed every time you shop the MTR Free Store.

Will I receive any reminders about my appointment?
YES! The system will send you a confirmation when you book the appointment. You will receive a reminder email two days before your appointment.

What should I do if I do not receive a confirmation?
Please check your SPAM folder, then contact Maureen at 781-281-8425 or via email at Maureen@massteacherresources.org

What do I need to bring with me to my appointment?
Teachers MUST bring their current district-issued ID every time they shop the MTR Free Store.

Should I bring my own boxes and/or bags when I come to shop?
We recommend that you bring your own bags and boxes when you come to shop the MTR Free Store. We do have some on hand, and will make them available if you need them.

What if I have to cancel my appointment?
To cancel your appointment, use the cancellation link in your reminder email. You will be able to return to the form to rebook your appointment if slots are still available. 

How often can I shop at the MTR Free Store?
During the 2025-2026 school year, teachers are invited to shop once during spring shopping hours, January to April 2026.