Move-Up Day is an exciting milestone for elementary students. It marks the move into a new grade, new classroom, and new routines. When schools make this day fun and welcoming, students feel confident and excited about the year ahead.
With support from PTO and PTA groups, Move-Up Day can be easy to organize and memorable for students. Here are simple ways to make it special.
Kick things off with a small gift
A small take-home gift helps students feel celebrated. Fun, useful items work best.
Scentco products like Smencils, Smens, or Backpack Buddies are perfect for Move-Up Day. They are kid-approved, affordable, and something students will actually use and enjoy. Add a short note like “Welcome to 4th grade!” to make it feel extra special.
Tour next year’s classrooms
Visiting next year’s classroom helps ease nerves and build excitement. This simple experience helps students feel more comfortable and confident.
Let students:
• Step inside their new classroom
• Meet next year’s teachers or aides
• Sit at a desk and explore the space
Try a day in the life of a next-grade student
Give students a sneak peek at what learning will be like next year. Keep it light and encouraging so students leave feeling capable.
Fun ways to do this:
• Try a short lesson or activity
• Complete a sample worksheet
• Practice new routines or expectations
• View examples of next year’s projects
Add games and hands-on activities
Interactive games keep energy high and help students connect. Games make the day fun and memorable.
Try:
• Classroom bingo with next-grade facts
• Scavenger hunts around the school
• Team challenges or building activities
• Question and answer games about next year
Celebrate progress and growth
Move-Up Day is a great time to recognize how far students have come. Celebrating growth helps students feel proud and ready to move forward.
Simple ideas include:
• Certificates of promotion
• Group photos
• Teacher shout-outs
• Reflection sheets about the year
How PTO and PTA groups can help
PTO and PTA groups play a key role in making Move-Up Day successful. Their support allows teachers to focus on students while everything runs smoothly.
They can:
• Organize and purchase gifts
• Help plan activities and schedules
• Prep materials and decorations
• Assist teachers and aides during transitions
End on a positive note
Wrap up the day with words of encouragement, a class cheer, or a small celebration. Move-Up Day is about confidence, excitement, and looking ahead.
With simple planning, fun activities, and support from PTO and PTA groups, Move-Up Day can be a joyful experience students remember long after the school year ends.
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