Helen Davies
Helen Davies August 7, 2024 • 4 min read
Helen Davies is a content creator for Square Signs. She enjoys blogging about DIY projects, business branding and interior as well as exterior design. If you want brilliant ideas on styling your home or office, you’ll love the trendy tips she has in store!

As the curtains draw and leave summer behind, educational institutions are preparing to welcome back staff and students for a new academic year. There’s no better way to kick things off than with vibrant back to school signs. These illustrations aren’t just about adding a pop of color to your classrooms. They’re here to guide, inspire and bring joy to everyday life.

Short of back to school sign ideas? Use our intuitive design tool to craft personalized elements by adding text, colors and images.

Types of Printable Back to School Signs

The school year is approaching and it's time to add some excitement to your classroom. Printable back to school poster designs are not just fun. They're also a practical way to welcome students back and create a sense of belonging. Let’s explore the different types of printable back to school signs that will ensure a spirited launch of the school year!

Hanging Back to School Banners

Green back to school vinyl banner displayed on the fence

Vinyl banners are a timeless choice for visual communication in schools, and it's easy to see why. Back to school banners are striking, durable, affordable and low-maintenance. Furthermore, they can be stored and repurposed for the following school year! Welcome back to school banners are versatile, making them a great fit for any area on campus. They can be used both indoors and outdoors. If you're short on space, consider free-standing welcome back to school banners that don't require attachment to a fence or window.

Free-Standing Back to School Backdrops

Retractable welcome back to school banner reading School Year Start and installed at the entrance

Retractable banners offer flexibility, allowing you to place them anywhere you need. Greeting students and parents with cheerful images and welcoming messages guarantees smiles all around. Free-standing back to school backdrops are handy since they can easily be rolled up and stored when not used. They’re also sturdy, minor bumps and falls during the school year. 

Peel and Stick Back to School Signs

First day of school window decal reading 1st Class, Welcome to School

Window decals can transform any plain glass surface into a fun space for students and parents alike. Choose from striking back to school poster designs, such as vibrant welcome messages or motivational quotes. Use them to encourage interaction like providing space for students to write their names or draw pictures. Simply peel and stick them onto clean, dry windows. When the season changes, they come off easily, making updates swift.

Portable Back to School Flags

Blue welcome back to school teardrop flag installed in the corridor

Teardrop flags mark different areas of your school or celebrate a school-wide event. Use back to school flags to indicate important locations or show off your school colors and mascot. Incorporate back to school flags into your school’s decor and communication strategies. Create a more engaging, organized and friendly environment for everyone.

Get adjustable first day of school sign templates at Square Signs to ensure a professional look. Add a creative touch to your custom signs with access to various design elements.

Welcome First Day of School Signs for Various School Areas

As the well-deserved summer break winds down, it's the perfect time to prepare for a successful school year. Make the first day uniquely memorable with “My first day of school” sign ideas for different locations around the school grounds.

Back to School Signs for Yards

First day of school yard sign displaying a school bus and reading Welcome Back

Yard signs for schools set a positive tone and celebrate the excitement of the first day back. Place them in the yard, near the school’s entrances or in the playground to set a receptive atmosphere. Use joyful messages like "Learning Starts Here," and "We Missed You, Welcome Back" to get everyone pumped for a fantastic year. Don’t worry about these products’ longevity; they’re made to stand the test of time!

Directional Lobby Back to School Signs

Directional aluminum back to school sign installed in the lobby, pointing to various areas

Aluminum signs with wayfinding arrows make life easier for everyone at school. Personalized first day of school sign designs help people navigate the halls and set students on the course for academic success right from the entrance. Use arrows, hoofprints or tiger stripes among other expert solutions for navigation. We have the perfect first day of school poster options to showcase your school spirit.

Back to School Library Displays

First day of school library wayfinding display featuring an assortment of books

PVC signs transform your library into a central community hub with engaging design ideas. They can feature a curated selection of books or educational resources to spark curiosity for the new academic year. “My first day of school sign ideas provide students with a warm invitation to explore and learn. Use them to highlight new arrivals, showcase classic literature or promote literacy programs.

Studies show that the first day of school may be daunting for students and teachers as it’s filled with uncertainties and changes. Back to school poster ideas are there to set a positive tone and alleviate stressful moments.

Wherever they’re placed, back to school displays can facilitate a smooth transition into the new school year. They may communicate important information and celebrate their unique identity. As we prepare for another year of learning and growth, let's use these signs to make the start of the school year special for all.