The first week of school is filled with excitement, nerves, and so many new beginnings. But as teachers, we also know this truth: not every student walks in ready to share their summer adventures. Some sit quietly, unsure if their story belongs. That’s why I created this back to school bulletin board craft inspired by The Day You Begin — to give every child a space to feel seen, heard, and celebrated.
Why The Day You Begin?
The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson is a beautifully written picture book about a young girl who feels different from her classmates — until she finds the courage to share her story. This book reminds us that every student carries a story worth telling, even if it doesn’t sound like everyone else’s.
This message is at the heart of my back to school bulletin board craft inspired by The Day You Begin. It gives students a meaningful way to reflect on their identities and connect with one another in those critical first days of school.
What’s Included in the Craft
This printable resource was designed with community and inclusivity in mind. Here’s what you’ll find inside this back to school bulletin board craft inspired by The Day You Begin:
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An accordion-style foldable writing template (3- or 6-panel options)
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16 diverse self-portrait toppers (8 boys and 8 girls) so every child feels represented
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Printable bulletin board letters that spell: “Unfolding Our Stories”
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Clear teacher instructions for easy prep and setup
Whether you’re teaching 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade, this craft makes a powerful addition to your first-week plans.
Building Classroom Community from Day One
So often, our bulletin boards showcase polished art or catchy phrases. But what if they showcased student voice?
This back to school bulletin board craft inspired by The Day You Begin helps you move beyond surface-level introductions. Students share real details about their lives, cultures, and experiences—and in doing so, they begin to understand and appreciate one another.
It’s an easy way to bring social-emotional learning, identity exploration, and creative writing into one powerful first-week activity.
When to Use It
This flexible activity works beautifully during:
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The first week of school
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Morning meeting
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SEL block
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Open House or Back-to-School Night
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Writer’s workshop launch
Any time you’re looking to build relationships and create space for student stories, this back to school bulletin board craft inspired by The Day You Begin will be a meaningful addition to your plans.
Let Their Stories Unfold
If you’re ready to start your school year with more connection, more inclusion, and more heart — this is for you.
👉 [Grab your copy of the Unfolding Our Stories bulletin board craft here.)
Because before we teach routines and rules, we teach students that who they are truly matters.
