(WVLT/Staples) -- Just in time for the Tax Free Weekend, a representative from Staples came in to our studios to talk about thehot items to buy for children as they head back to school.

This year, basic 'school tools' bring new dimension, a wild side and shimmer with shine. In other words, they are fun, fashionable AND functional. Our local back-to-school spokesperson is available to show viewers the latest must-have styles and trends in school supplies in a "what's hot for back-to-school" segment starting July 12. If your scheduling permits, we can also set up a college/tech segment in August, too.

Let me know what works…it can either be in-studio or on-location. Examples of must-have supplies our local spokesperson can bring to the set include:

3D Fun- Bring new dimension to basic supplies with cool new 3D treatments that will add new depth to everything from note-taking to toting supplies. Azuna 3D collection by Carolina Pad (1-subject notebook $2.99) and Note-it Style™ AzunaTM 3D Dry Erase Board ($7).

Animal Instincts- Take a walk on the wild side with fun yet functional supplies showcasing fierce animal prints (Staples Animal Print Erasers- $0.99; exclusive to Staples, Z-Grip™ Animals Ballpoint Pens- 3.79, and Yak Pak and Jansport Backpacks- $$$). Or use cute creatures to transport electronic documents with the EMTEC Animal USB Flash Drives ($12.99) available in a variety of critters like pandas, pigs, turtles, fish and mice.

Dare to be Dazzling- Shimmering with shine, but durable enough to withstand heavy-duty daily use, Staples BETTER® Binder ($7.99- exclusive to Staples) features new glitter treatment or a two-toned design with brightly colored panels and edges to satisfy any fashionista's style. Add to the sparkle with the Glam Rocks Collection ($2.99-$4.99) including bejeweled staplers, scissors, rulers, calculators, pens, and accessories or notebooks like Glitter Personal 5x7 Notebook by Carolina Pad ($2.99).

Laptop Deals You'll Love- Students can save big this season with amazing deals on laptops. When students purchase select laptops and show their student ID or college acceptance letter, they will receive a $100 Visa prepaid card via EasyRebate. Laptops include the Dell 15r-15.6" ($729.99) featuring switchable lids for personalization, the lightweight, portable and stylish HP DM4-2070 14" ($799.99), the ultra-thin and high-performance Samsung Princeton 11.6" ($699.99) and the Toshiba Tecra 14" ($749.99) with up to eight hours of battery life. The Samsung and Toshiba models also include Microsoft Office Home and Student 2010 full version pre-installed (a $119 value).

The New "Tech" - Tablets and e-readers are quickly becoming the must-have accessories for today's tech-savvy students. The new HP TouchPad ($599.99) and HTC Flyer (price TBD) serve as great computing companions while the Amazon Kindle (price range) and Barnes & Noble NOOK (price range) gives new meaning to "hitting the books." Whether note-taking in lectures, keeping up with student life via social media, or reading textbooks, students can experience Staples' selections of tablets and e-readers in-store to determine their best fit.

Socially-Conscience and Cool - Exclusive to Staples! For the second straight year, Staples is continuing with its line of DoSomething.org-inspired products ($0.99-$12.99), that students can use to keep organized and learn about important issues impacting their communities. Some of the designs were developed by students who won a contest to have their creative artwork showcased on products such as planners, notebooks and pencil pouches.

For more information on these products, head to http://www.staples.com/