Echoing others above. The majority of free reading, cheerful decor, and creative materials in primary classrooms comes out of pocket from teachers (to the tune of many 100s of dollars per year, most years), or by gift from parents, communities, or retiring teachers. (This is so widespread that the USA federal tax code allows for a specific tax deduction for teachers buying classroom supplies; most teachers I know exceed that amount every year.)
I would take this teacher at her word, and try to work with her.
