The Ol' College Try

Burden also mentioned decals—particularly dry-erase and chalkboard types—as good options for the high school market, as they're budget-friendly and have a number of uses. "Our newer dry-erase and chalkboard decals have become very popular for students and educators as reminders, messages, calendars or [notes]," he explained. "These removable decals can be placed anywhere and removed at any time with no damage or adhesive residue left behind, so you can always have access to a message board wherever you need it."

Still, there are ways to circumvent budget restrictions with high school buyers, if you're willing to put in the extra work. Burden suggested finding sponsors or offering shared advertising with local businesses, which helps distribute costs and increases the odds of a larger sale. "Even as the economy improves, schools will continue to have funding challenges, so if you can present effective, low-cost ideas and offer up some advertising space to help offset the costs, you will help move yourself to the head of the class," he said.