As the back-to-school season approaches, the idea of spending is on every parent's mind. The list for school supplies keeps growing, and college-bound kids face more than just tuition expenses. The costs for pricey items such as laptops and specialized software can easily break any well-rounded budget. But parents can ace this back-to-school season by coming up with a plan of action for anything this year's classes have to throw at them.

Check out these stories to help prep your family for everything for back to school, from trimming the school supplies list to getting your student on the right financial track. And don't forget, being in school has its perks, in the form of discounts just for students.

• Surprise! College costs even more than you thought
  College expenses don't end at tuition and room and board. Here's where college costs can get you.
• 5 ways to cut back-to-school costs
  As students head back to school, don't let the costs of clothes and supplies break your budget.
• Students score top discount perks
  Don't pay full price when you're a student. From laptops to new clothes, student discounts abound.
• Getting your student a credit card
  Don't give your college student the keys to your credit card without some driver's ed.
• 6 tips for frugal back-to-school savings
  You don't have to spend a pile of money on school needs. Follow these frugal tips to save big.
• 10 best ways to pay for college tuition in 2011
  College is pricey. Get schooled in these creative cost-cutting strategies.
• 10 best colleges for the money
  Some of the schools boast low tuition, while others offer handsome financial aid packages.