4th Grade Frenzy: July 2024
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July 30, 2024

10 Back to School Door Decoration Ideas

Create a welcoming atmosphere for your students with these back-to-school door decoration ideas:


  1. "Under the Sea Adventure"

    • Create an underwater scene with fish, seaweed, and bubbles. Each student's name can be on a different sea creature.
  2. "Superheroes in Training"

    • Design a superhero-themed door with capes and masks. Each student can be represented as a superhero with their name on a star or shield.
  3. "Blast Off to a Great Year"

    • Make a space-themed door with rockets, planets, and stars. Each student's name can be on a star or spaceship.
  4. "Camping in Our Classroom"

    • Set up a camping scene with tents, trees, and a campfire. Each student's name can be on a s'more or tent.
  5. "Sailing into a New School Year"

    • Decorate with a nautical theme featuring a large boat and waves. Each student's name can be on a life preserver or sailboat.
  6. "Oh, the Places You'll Go!"

    • Use a Dr. Seuss theme with hot air balloons and whimsical characters. Each student's name can be on a hot air balloon.
  7. "Welcome to the Jungle"

    • Create a jungle scene with trees, vines, and animals. Each student's name can be on a different animal.
  8. "Poppin' into a Great Year"

    • Make a popcorn-themed door with popcorn pieces and a large popcorn bucket. Each student's name can be on a popcorn piece.
  9. "Building a Bright Future"

    • Design a construction-themed door with tools, hard hats, and building blocks. Each student's name can be on a brick or tool.  

Orrrr....How 'bout a door display you can leave up all year?!



Your students will love seeing their names!

*Shape tablets can be useful for door themes. I've found them at the dollar store, Staples, and in the School Specialty catalog.

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With faith and friendship,


July 13, 2024

Connect With Families Before Back-to-School Time

 As summer winds down and the new school year approaches, building strong relationships with families becomes a priority. Establishing these connections before the first day of school can set a positive tone for the year and foster a supportive community.

1. Send a Welcome Letter.

A personalized welcome letter can make a big impact. Introduce yourself, share a bit about your background, and outline your excitement for the upcoming school year. Include a fun fact or two about yourself to make it more personable.

2. Host a Virtual Meet-up.

Organize a virtual meet-and-greet session. This can be a casual event where families can log in, meet you, ask questions, and share any concerns. It’s a great way to put faces to names and start building rapport.

3. Send a Survey.

Distribute a survey to gather information about your students and their families. Ask about their interests, learning preferences, and any concerns they might have. This not only helps you get to know them better but also shows that you value their input.

4. Plan a Family Night.


If possible, organize an informal family night at the school. This event can include a tour of the classroom, a brief presentation about the upcoming school year, and time for families to mingle. Offering refreshments and engaging activities can make it more enjoyable.

5. Make Personal Phone Calls.

Taking the time to call each family individually can be incredibly impactful. Introduce yourself, express your enthusiasm for having their child in your class, and ask if they have any questions or concerns. This personal touch can help build trust and openness.

6. Offer Office Hours

Set aside specific times when families can call or visit you with any questions they might have. Advertise these office hours in your welcome letter and on your classroom website. Being available shows that you are approachable and ready to support them.

7. Send a Postcard.

Send a cheerful postcard to each student. This simple gesture can make students feel special and excited about the upcoming year. A short, positive message from their new teacher can go a long way in easing first-day jitters.


Connecting with families before the school year begins can create a strong foundation for a successful academic year. These efforts show that you care about your students’ well-being and are committed to fostering a collaborative, supportive environment. By implementing these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to building lasting, meaningful relationships with the families in your school community!

Check out these other Back-to-School ideas!


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With faith and friendship,