Which cosmetics counter would you go to?

I like Bare Minerals.  They have a starter kit you can get that has smaller sizes of most everything you need to see if you like it.  I like the fact that it's very light, stays on well, and you can get the level of coverage you want.  

I took my 13 year old to Ulta for a make-over and he was amazing!!! It was 30$ and he was so fantastic, it was worth every penny.
We did spent over $200 on primer, foundation, cover up, and blush and a basic brush set.

I'd go to ulta or sephora -- they're easiest to poke around and try all the different brands. Make an appointment for a makeover -- they'll usually comp the makeover if you buy some of the product.

I was in Sephora yesterday, and the sales people were incredibly helpful. I bought a CC cream that I don't like today -- they're so good about returns there. I won't have a problem bringing it back or exchanging it for a different color.

Another nice thing about Sephora is that you can get some samples of different foundations, etc. If you're looking for drugstore, the Covergirl 3 in 1 with the turquoise top is great. Revlon Colorstay is longwearing and it comes in a couple of different skin types.
Honestly, for blushes, there are some high end I like but the Wet-n-Wild Color icon blushes are awesome. The only drawback is that they only come in 4 colors.
Jordana Twist-n-Shine lip pencil stains are really nice too - you can get those at Walgreens. They're especially nice for a teacher since you won't need to touch up color much during the day.
My fave drugstore mascara is CoverGirl Clump Crusher - I use the water resistant but you don't have to. At Ulta I like Tarte's Light Camera Lashes and Mally Volumizing Mascara.

I like Bare Minerals.  They have a starter kit and it is very light and won't feel like you are weighed down.  I would visit their store if one is in your area or go to Sephora.  I have yet to have a bad experience at Sephora.  

I go to both Ulta and Sephora. I like Sephora better. I think you'll do better at a place where you can try different brands.

I second exactly what khalessi said. Also, for eye makeup, the Sephora "house" brand is very good (IMO) and will not break your budget.

Fave drugstore mascara is L'oreal Voluminous Carbon Black.

Go to Sephora and then hit YouTube videos. I can give you suggestions of other beauty people on YouTube to watch if you want them. I love Lauren Curtis (the video posted above). She does a lot of pretty, natural looks.

Definitely Sephora. Tell them exactly your needs and budget and they will probably do a mini makeover. Sooo much fun! They are usually very generous with their samples also.

Jordana Extreme Lash is a great drugstore product. Black tube with purple writing. I have lots of high end mascaras...Dior, YSL, Lancôme, etc.,etc,. Jordana beats them all.
Also Cover Girl Clump Crusher in the orange tube. Never clumps and is a great daytime mascara that can be built up. I actually use 1 coat of this with 2 coats of the Jordana on top. Oh, I get the Jordadna at KMart for 2.99. Cover Girl is a little more but not by much...I get it at Walmart.

Happy shopping.

the correct name is Jordana Best Lash Extreme. 

Diane

I have very sensitive skin and can't wear anything by Estée Lauder. Horrible red itchy rash!

On another note, the first Sephora in Australia is due to open in Sydney in December. I can't wait! My son got me stuff at the one in Times Square and was a bit overwhelmed by choice. He did good though -Naked Palette 3 plus a bunch of samples. They're talking about trying to keep pricing on par with the US stores, plus shipping. I hope they do - makeup is so expensive here comparatively.

I also have sensitive skin & highly recommend MAC Cosmetics. HTH & thank you for investing in the futures of your students; may you have a long & successful teaching career! 

My 24 yo swears by Bare Minerals. Says she won't use anything else now that she's found that.

My Ulta was very non helpful. Either they are just shelf stockers and cashiers or it was my age and they didn't think I was worth their time. My DD drug me to the Merle Norman shop around the corner from my home and got me 'outfitted' for $100.00 I've gone back to my slothful, no make up ways though.

this is what I would do. you will have a lot of options