I am a First grade teacher and am interested in purchasing a Cricut Expression 2. I would probably use it mostly for my classroom, but also for my home and possibly cards. I would love some suggestions if this is the right machine for me. Also, what cartridges would be good to purchase?

Thank you!

Check the cartridge library: http://www.cricut.com/information/cartridge_library.aspx

It's not 100% up to date, but has most of the carts listed and most of the digital handbooks.

I, too, would suggest Everyday Paper Dolls, Create A Critter, Locker Talk, and Doodlecharms. A couple more are Paper Dolls Dress Up and Plantin' Schoolbook. There are some carts, called Classroom cartridges, you may want to check out as well. I believe they are My World, My Community, and a few more....I do not have them, so do not remember the names. 50 States has just that, all 50 states with their flags, birds, capitols, etc. There are a few carts that are word builders...they have puzzle pieces, or other images, that have the letters cut out inside them. You can then connect them together, after cutting them out, to form words. Learning Curve has the puzzle pieces, I believe, but it may not be the only one. For vehicles, the Lite cart Beep Beep! is awesome for the age group you teach. However, the Lite carts were exclusive to WalMart, and most across the country have clearanced these carts, so they sold out quickly. You could still check. You may also be able to find it on eBay, which is a great source for good prices on carts, IF you win...LOL! I hope this is not information overload. I would definitely check out the Cartridge Library on this site. Clicking on the name of the cart will take you to it's handbook. That way you can scroll through what images are available on the cart, and see all the features. Unfortunately, the newer carts are not on it. However, the ones that have been suggested are. Good Luck! HTH. GG