Last Day of School Activities for Elementary Classrooms

The last day of school is a special milestone for both students and teachers. It marks the end of a year filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable moments. 

For second and third graders, it’s an especially exciting time as they look forward to summer adventures and moving on to new challenges in the next grade. 

As teachers, it’s our opportunity to create lasting memories and celebrate the achievements of our students in a fun and meaningful way. 

To help make this day extra special, we’ve compiled a list of engaging and enjoyable activities perfect for second-grade and third-grade students. From creating memory books to hosting talent shows, these ideas are designed to bring joy and a sense of accomplishment to your classroom. 

1. Memory Book Creation

Have students create a memory book that captures their favorite moments and learning experiences from the school year.

How to DYI a Memory Book

• Provide students with blank booklets or sheets of paper stapled together.
• Ask them to draw pictures and write short descriptions of their favorite memories, friends, subjects, and activities.
• Include prompts like “My favorite field trip was…”, “I loved learning about…”, and “Next year, I am excited about…”.
• Allow time for students to share their books with the class.

Or purchase one of these Memory Books for grades 2-5 which have fun fonts, graphics, and places for students to reflect on their school year and look forward to next year.

2. Classroom Awards Ceremony

Hold a fun awards ceremony where each student receives a unique award.

How to DYI Your Classroom Award Certificates

• Prepare awards ahead of time with categories like “Best Reader”, “Super Scientist”, “Math Whiz”, “Kindness Award”, etc.
• Create certificates or small trophies to present to the students.
• Call each student up individually, announce their award, and present it to them.
• Celebrate with applause and take pictures of each student with their award.

You can also purchase these Classroom Award Medalions that are part of our End of the School Year Activities Resource. 

3. Autograph T-Shirts

Have students create personalized autograph t-shirts that they can remember their classmates by.

How to Do the Autograph T-Shirt Activity

• Ask each student to bring a plain white t-shirt from home.
• Provide fabric markers or paint pens.
• Let students go around the classroom and sign each other’s shirts with messages and drawings.
• Ensure each student signs every shirt to make it a keepsake of their classmates.

4. Outdoor Picnic and Games

Organize an outdoor picnic and fun games for the last day of school.

How to Do an Outdoor Picnic and Games for Kids

• Coordinate with parents to bring in snacks, drinks, and picnic blankets.
• Plan a mix of activities like relay races, sack races, tug-of-war, and a water balloon toss.
• Set up stations for different games and rotate groups of students through each station.
• End the picnic with a group game like a big parachute game or a group dance session.

5. Class Time Capsule

Create a time capsule that the class can open at a future date.

How to DYI a Time Capsule

• Provide a container or box for the time capsule.
• Have students bring small items representing their year (e.g., a favorite book, a small toy, a picture, or a letter to their future self).
• Each student can write a letter or draw a picture about what they want to remember from second grade.
• Seal the time capsule and decide on a date to open it (e.g., when they are in fifth grade).

6. Movie and Popcorn Party

Host a movie and popcorn party in the classroom.

How to Have a Movie and Popcorn Party

• Choose a popular, age-appropriate movie that the students will enjoy. Here’s a list of G-Rated Movies for you!
• Set up the classroom with comfortable seating arrangements, like blankets and pillows.
• Prepare popcorn and other movie snacks.
• Dim the lights and create a theater-like atmosphere.
• Allow students to relax and enjoy the movie together.

7. Talent Show

Organize a class talent show where students can showcase their unique skills.

How to Host a Talent Show

• Ask students to sign up and practice a talent they want to share (e.g., singing, dancing, magic tricks, jokes, playing an instrument).
• Create a simple stage area in the classroom.
• Encourage students to cheer and support their classmates.
• Provide small certificates or ribbons for participation.

8. Scrapbook Page Swap

Create scrapbook pages to exchange with classmates.

How to Do the Scrapbook Page Swap Activity

• Give each student a blank scrapbook page.
• Have them decorate their page with pictures, stickers, and personal messages.
• Once completed, students can exchange their scrapbook pages with each other.
• Collect all pages and create a class scrapbook as a keepsake for the classroom.

As the school year ends, the last day of school offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the incredible journey taken by your second graders. These activities are more than just fun; they help students celebrate their friendships and recognize their achievements. 

By incorporating these engaging and heartfelt ideas into your classroom, you can ensure your students leave with smiles and excitement for what lies ahead.