Yep, we are at that point ... the halfway point of summer vacation, that is. It's hard to believe -- especially with the recent hot weather -- but school will be back in session before you know it.

This fall, don't wait until the last minute to stock up on the essentials for back-to-school. There are lots of ways this week to prepare the kids and save a lot of cash.

1. FAMOUS FOOTWEAR

The Deal: It's back! Famous Footwear again has a Buy One, Get One Half-off sale. Simply purchase one pair of shoes and get another pair of equal or lesser value for half price.

Good Through: Indefinitely

2. BEST BUY

The Deal: If you're looking to stock your student with the latest in tech gear, check out Best Buy. The retailer is holding a "Buy More, Save More" sale. Mix and match from an assortment of bags, cables, cases, headphones, memory cards and much more. Buy three items and save 15 percent, or buy four items and save 20 percent.

Good Through: Aug. 27

3.  CVS

The Deal: Stock up on back-to-school basics at CVS this week. Rewards Card holders get free packages of eight-count Paper Mate Grip pens after earning Extra Bucks at the register and Caliber one-subject notebooks for 25 cents each.

Good Through: July 30

4. RITE AID

The Deal: Rite Aid is another great place to find back-to-school supplies. Get Mead composition books and one-subject notebooks for 33 cents each when you buy three.

Good Through: July 30

5. TARGET

The Deal: Turn a dorm room into a high-end haven with great deals from Target. Room Essentials accent tables, lap desks and desk lamps with an organizer are each $12. Room Essential chairs, rockers and ottomans are $24 -- and don't forget the microwave! A Sunbeam microwave oven is $39.

Good Through: July 30