MADISON, Wis. -- Even though it's still July, local stores are already slashing prices on school supplies -- but does that mean it's the right time to buy?

With fall coming soon, experts are offering ways people can find the best-buying strategy.

Although packs of paper and a calculator might not be a dream purchase for sixth-grader Mike Truttman, they are things every student will need. Everything from glue to No. 2 pencils are on the back-to-school list, and some parents aren't waiting to take advantage of the deals.

"I really don't like competing with the crowds, and they really do have some great sales going on now," said Shelly Truttman, of New Glarus. "You get things pretty cheaply."

Stores like Target began slashing prices on school supplies halfway through the summer vacation, and Mae Laatsch, with the Madison College Small Business Entrepreneurship program, said now may be the time to cash in.

"Normally, you would buy closer to school start; however, due to the economy and the fact that you may not know whether you're going to have a job next month, (if) you've got the money and the children need the supplies, now is the time to buy," she said.

With economic uncertainty ramping up the schedule, Laastch said parents may want to get to the stores soon to make sure they get the deals and supplies before selection wanes.

"So, Aug. 1, you better be thinking about it coming up, and you better buy before you go on vacation because you may not get a selection," Laastch warned. "That's the biggest thing with school supplies -- the selection may be gone."

Mike Truttman said he's making sure he's ready, and his mother said she is perfectly happy with that.

"I think there are some definite savings, and there's no one around to compete with," she said. "You can actually push the cart through the aisle."

At the same time, local organizations are also gearing up for the school year by lending a helping hand.

The annual event Backpacks for Success is sponsored by the group 100 Black Men of Madison, and leaders said the event has ballooned since 1998. This year, the group said it expects to hand out 1,600 backpacks filled with school supplies for students in need.

"You see the smiles, you see them running around with their new backpacks and you just can't help but giggle a little bit," said Chris Canty. "You just see their exuberance and it really is a great day. It makes you feel great."

Recipients of the backpacks are usually in elementary and middle schools. This year's distribution date is set for Aug. 28, but supplies are still needed.