I hear you!
I have to admit, though, that I haven't sat down and added up what our total cost for school was for this year in supplies. I know that to enroll the kids was over $400 and that doesn't include our college son.
I save money by buying the kids school supplies throughout the year when they are on sale. I keep a cabinet with nothing but school supplies in it.
I am a little sad, this year, as there will not be anyone but me home during the day while my kids are in school - until our new children come home from another state. I can't wait!!!