Get Plugged In: Tools to Help Students Start Strong
A new school year is here — full of fresh faces, new routines, and endless possibilities. For some students, it’s the comfort of familiar hallways and friends. For others, especially those who have PCSed over the summer, it’s the challenge of starting over in an unfamiliar place.
Those first weeks can bring big emotions — and big opportunities. By helping students get plugged in and build their bandwidth, we can create the connections that make a school feel like home.
This Back-to-School toolkit is packed with simple, ready-to-use ideas to spark friendships, boost confidence, and make the transition smoother for every student. Together, we can help them start strong and feel connected from day one.
Welcome Packets
Teachers: Help ease those first-day jitters for both new and returning students. Include this “Welcome Certificate” in your packets to create an instant connection and set a friendly tone for the year.
Name Tags
Not just for newcomers — name tags help everyone settle in, spark conversations, and make introductions easy. Give one to each student…and don’t forget one for yourself! Use Avery template 5895.
Ice Breakers
Our Student 2 Student® program specializes in welcoming new students and helping them get plugged in. Try these icebreaker activities to break down barriers, spark laughter, and build camaraderie from day one.
Fun Activities
All About Me – A simple, all-ages activity that lets students share fun facts and find common ground.
Back-to-School Crossword – A playful way to warm up thinking skills. Younger students might enjoy teaming up to solve it together.
Back to School Toolkit
Planning for the coming year can be overwhelming, especially for military families with multiple children in various grades or after a PCS move. We dove into many resources to provide you with tips and tricks to help you make this school year (and every school year) a success!
Checklist for School Moves
School transitions can be one of the most stressful parts of a PCS for families. Use our checklist to help you keep the transition as smooth as possible.
Explore all toolkit resources:
Visit our full resource library for more topics
Have a Question? Ask a MSC!
Do you have a question regarding transition or the needs to best serve your military-connected child? Connect with a Military Student Consultant.