Check out a variety of heartwarming end-of-the-year books perfect for reading aloud, celebrating special memories, and encouraging reflection as the school year wraps up.
End-of-the-Year Read-Alouds
As the school year ends and summer break draws near, it’s time to remember all the learning, challenges, and successes in class. But sometimes, the days feel longer than ever. No matter how many end-of-the-year activities you do. It seems like there are still hours to fill!
Why not celebrate with some special books? These end-of-the-year books are great for helping kids in grades K-2 wrap up the year with happiness and reflect on what they’ve accomplished. So, find a comfy spot, gather your students, and read some stories that capture the end of the school year.
15 End of the Year Books For Read-Alouds
End-of-the-year books are a great way to celebrate everything we’ve learned and experienced together. From stories about friendship to tales of summer fun, these 15 books are perfect for wrapping up the school year. Plenty of wonderful stories capture the excitement of the end of the year and remind us of all the special moments we’ve shared.
Last Day Blues by Julie Danneberg
What do teachers do during summer vacation? Mrs. Hartwell’s students fret over leaving her behind for the break. Determined to keep her spirits up, they hatch a plan. Little do they know, Mrs. Hartwell and her fellow teachers have their own surprises.
Memory Jars by Vera Brosgol
Freda feels crushed when she can’t devour all the juicy blueberries she’s picked. Waiting a whole year for their return seems unbearable. However, Gran suggests preserving them as jam in a jar. Inspired, Freda starts saving all her cherished possessions. Yet, she soon discovers that hoarding everything prevents her from savoring anything. Freda learns that some things are meant to be cherished as memories, not stored away.
And Then Comes Summer by Tim Brenner
From flip-flops and games of hide-and-seek to fireworks and ice-cream trucks, from lemonade stands and staying up late to swimming in the lake and roasting marshmallows, there’s something for everyone in this joyful celebration of the sunny season.
Summer Vacation, Here I Come! By D.J. Steinburg
Summer break is here, inviting us to bask in the sunshine with a delightful collection of sweet and humorous poems by D. J. Steinberg, the author of the beloved Kindergarten, Here I Come! As the season unfolds, dive into the fun of splashing at the pool and embarking on family road trips through these charming verses. These poems capture the essence of summer vacation, bringing joy to readers of all ages.
The End Is Just The Beginning by Mike Bender
Beginning a book from its end might seem weird at first glance. However, the end of one chapter marks the commencement of a new journey. This story is a valuable tool for teaching children how to confront life’s obstacles with positivity and anticipation.
Have You Ever Wondered What You Will Be? By Junia Wonders
A charming picture book filled with inspirational affirmations and rhymes. It’s perfect for those embarking on life’s adventures. Through beautiful illustrations, the story follows children imagining their future careers. It acknowledges life’s challenges and encourages perseverance and positivity. It reminds us that overcoming obstacles is part of achieving our dreams.
I Wish You Happiness by Micheal Wong
This book is full of inspirational messages empowering children to reach their fullest potential. Recommended by many parents, teachers, and librarians, it is the perfect book about aspiration and imagination.
The Year We Learned To Fly by Jacqueline Woodson
On a dull, rainy day, a brother and sister receive wisdom from their grandmother: “Harness your beautiful minds. Stretch your arms, close your eyes, take a deep breath, and envision something.” Their imaginations soar, rescuing them from boredom. Similarly, amidst squabbles, they learn to step out of their anger. Their grandmother explains that this skill was passed down from ancestors and showcases the strength of their minds and resilience.
Good Bye For Now by Madison Rowe
The last day of school carries a mix of emotions! Teachers and students grow, support each other throughout the year, and create cherished memories. As you read this story to students, they’ll feel the love and encouragement from their teacher, inspiring them to embark on new adventures in the upcoming school year.
The End by John Bray
Discover the joy of beginnings and transitions and even celebrate the magic of new starts. This playful tale explores endings—big or small—and embraces the excitement of fresh beginnings. It reminds us that every ending marks the start of something new and different, encouraging readers to find fun and wonder in every journey.
A Letter to My Teacher by Deborah Hopkinson
This touching and humorous picture book honors the profound influence of an exceptional teacher. Written as a heartfelt thank-you from a student who deeply appreciates her, it’s an ideal classroom read-aloud and a thoughtful end-of-the-year gift for teachers and students.
Do Not Bring Your Dragon to the Last Day of School by Julie Gassman
As another year of learning ends, it’s time to celebrate! Dragon loves parties, picnics, and playgrounds and is eager to join the festivities. But is it wise to bring a dragon to the last day of school?
Be You! By Peter H. Reynolds
Explore a delightful affirmation of each child’s distinctiveness and value. This book encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness and embody patience, perseverance, and authenticity. Celebrate the singular masterpiece that is YOU.
A Teacher Like You by Frank Murphy and Barbara Dan
Teachers change children’s lives every school day. Whether teaching math, reading, music, sports, or about our diverse world, teachers offer kindness, creativity, and patience. This celebrates how teachers help students grow.
A Letter From Your Teacher: On the Last Day of School by Shannon Olsen
In a heartfelt letter, the teacher encourages the class to reflect on shared memories, friendships, and overcoming obstacles. The letter expresses the teacher’s pride and sadness at parting ways while cheering students on for their future adventures.
These end-of-the-year books are the perfect addition to the school day and allow students to reflect on their school journey this year.
Highlighting End-of-the-Year Resources
After reading some end-of-the-year books, you might want to explore the End of Year Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Pack. This pack is designed to help students reflect on their experiences, celebrate achievements, and prepare for summer break. This resource includes interactive activities, discussion prompts, and reflection worksheets to support students’ social-emotional growth and well-being.
End-of-the-Year Countdown
Start the countdown to the end of the year with a fun countdown. Whether it’s pajama day, movie day, or extra recess. Students will love the activity, and it’s always fun to take down a ring and see the days dwindle away!
Summer Bucket List
Get students excited about summer with a personalized summer bucket list. Students will decide where they would like to visit, what book they want to read, what ice cream they would like to enjoy, and so much more. Plus, they’ll make an easy-to-assemble craft, making this project an awesome addition to any bulletin board.
Student Award Hat
Students love being recognized for being awesome. Create an awards hat for each child and fill it up! Consider using “the brave” or “the creative” award. These hats are simple to create, and students will proudly wear them on those last days.
End of the Year Stars
Goodbye stars make a great last day of school activity! Each person is a star (including you). Create a star for each student and yourself. Have students go around and sign each star and leave personalized messages for the person. A simple activity that will show students just how loved they are.
Final Day Discussion
Finally, on that last day or in those last hours, discuss with students all the fun activities, crafts, games, and things they learned throughout the year. It is a great way to finish the year and send students home with many memories.
Memory Book: Creating End-of-Year Memories
Encourage students to cherish their favorite moments from the school year with creative activities and keepsakes. Consider using the End-of-Year Memory Book to guide students in documenting their memories through writing prompts, drawings, and reflections.
Tips for Creating a Classroom Memory Book
Creating a classroom memory book is a wonderful way to capture the special moments and experiences from the school year. It’s like making a scrapbook filled with pictures, stories, and reflections to which everyone in the class contributes.
Here are simple tips and fun ideas to help students create a memory book:
- Start Early – Begin planning your memory book well before the end of the school year to allow enough time for gathering materials and completing the pages.
- Assign Pages – Assign different pages or sections of the memory book to individual students. Choose the pages you think students will enjoy filling out the most.
- Include Prompts – Provide students with writing prompts or questions to guide their reflections on the school year. Some prompts may include favorite memories, proudest achievements, funniest moments, and lessons learned.
- Add Photos – Incorporate photos or drawings to capture special moments, field trips, class projects, and events visually.
- Provide Time for Reflection – Set aside dedicated time during the school day for students to work on their memory book pages.
- Celebrate Completion – Once the memory book is complete, host a special unveiling or sharing session where students can share their favorite pages and reflections with their classmates.
A Note to Teachers – You Made It!
Dear Teachers,
Summer vacation is around the corner, so take a moment to celebrate your hard work, dedication, and impact on students’ lives. You’ve created a supportive and nurturing environment where students have grown and learned. As you look back on the past year and look ahead to the summer and the new school year, remember the difference you’ve made and the lives you’ve touched. Rest, recharge, and embrace the journey with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
Celebrate the achievements and memories shared with your students as the school year ends. With thoughtful reflection and creative expression, you can create a meaningful and memorable end-of-year experience for your classroom community.
xoxo,
Elyse
Resources to Get To The Last Day!
Free Summer Writing Journal
Encourage kids to write over summer vacation with the free Summer Writing Journal!
Click the image below to grab a copy.
End of the Year Social-Emotional Learning
Get students excited about the end of the year with these fun social-emotional learning activities by Proud to be Primary. Students will love creating award hats, discussing their favorite memories, and creating an end-of-the-year memory book they can take home!
If you like this resource but just want the end of the year memory book, that’s not a problem!
More End Of The Year Ideas and Activities
30 End-Of-The-Year Activities Classroom
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