Let’s talk about that first week of school. It’s always exciting. It’s fresh. And honestly —it’s a lot. It’s just so much. And, as exciting as it is every year, it’s also exhausting and overwhelming.

You’re meeting new students, trying to remember everyone’s name, teaching procedures, getting your classroom routines off the ground, and somehow trying to squeeze in meaningful academic content in between the glue sticks and morning meltdowns.

It’s no wonder the first week can feel like survival mode (at least for me).

That’s exactly why I created this FREE Back to School Survival Pack for Upper Elementary Teachers—because I’ve been there time and again, and I wanted to help lighten the load for other teachers. I hope this helps makes your first week feel doable, organized, and super duper fun!

What Is It, and Why Is It Free?

I have packed this pack with over 140 pages of ready-to-use, sweet print-and-go goodness made just for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade teachers. Think of it as your first-week safety net—filled with thoughtful activities, engaging tools, and simple routines to help you and your students start strong. I wanted it to be something you would come back to year after year!

And yes, it’s completely free. This is my gift to you. Because I know how overwhelming the start of school can be—and I also know how powerful it is when teachers feel supported and confident walking into that first day.

So What’s Inside?

Let me give you a little sneak peek.

There are fun and easy get-to-know-you activities—like student surveys and “All About Me” pages—that help you learn who your kids are without them having to stand up and make a speech on Day One. (Because, let’s face it, even we’d rather not do that.)

You’ll find back-to-school reading passages and writing prompts that help you get your routines started while still sneaking in a little content. There’s even a KWL chart for classroom expectations that makes a great first day mini-lesson.

There are icebreakers, brain breaks, and movement games—because no one wants to sit still and read rules all day long. (You’ll love the “Would You Rather” prompts and classroom charades—trust me, they’re a hit.)

And yes, there’s a classroom procedure checklist and a “First Week Must-Teach” guide to help you remember all those little things we tend to forget when we’re just trying to survive until Friday.

Why It Helps

This survival pack isn’t just a bunch of random worksheets. I designed every single page to help you:

• Build relationships with your students
• Establish expectations and routines
• Make the first week memorable (in a good way)
• Take the pressure off YOU

I even included fun and special things like bookmarks, rewards, and classroom cheer!! A little joy and encouragement can go such a long way in creating classroom culture from day one!

Grab It Now. Did I Mention It’s FREE?

If you’re feeling that “How will I get everything ready in time?” panic setting in, please know this: you don’t have to do it all alone.

This free pack has your back. It’s simple. It’s organized. And it’s made by someone who’s been in your shoes. I pray that this FREE gift helps you start the new school year calm, prepared, and confident—knowing you’ve already got a plan in place. You’ve got this, friend. And I’ve got you, because you’re going to make a difference this year for so many kiddos!