I Tested the Best Back To School Signs: What Worked for Me This Year

As the summer days start to wind down, I always find myself drawn to the simple yet powerful symbol of a back to school sign. It’s more than just a piece of decoration—it’s a cheerful herald of new beginnings, fresh opportunities, and the excitement that comes with stepping into a new academic year. Whether it’s hanging on a classroom door or greeting students at the front entrance, a back to school sign sets the tone and sparks enthusiasm. In this article, I want to explore what makes these signs so special and why they continue to hold a meaningful place in the back-to-school tradition.

I Tested The Back To School Sign Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Double-Sided First Day & Last Day School Board, 12 10 Inches, Reusable Color Painting, Washable Chalkboard Signs for Kindergarten & Pre-K

PRODUCT NAME

Double-Sided First Day & Last Day School Board, 12 10 Inches, Reusable Color Painting, Washable Chalkboard Signs for Kindergarten & Pre-K

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

My First Day of School Sign Board with Liquid Chalk Markers - 14”x11” Double-Sided & Reusable - First and Last Day - Back to School Board for Kindergarten, Preschool

PRODUCT NAME

My First Day of School Sign Board with Liquid Chalk Markers – 14”x11” Double-Sided & Reusable – First and Last Day – Back to School Board for Kindergarten, Preschool

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Lincia Spanish First and Last Day of School Board with 6 Chalkboard Markers 10 x 12 Inch Wood Frame Double Sided Back to School Chalkboard Sign for Español Kindergarten Preschool

PRODUCT NAME

Lincia Spanish First and Last Day of School Board with 6 Chalkboard Markers 10 x 12 Inch Wood Frame Double Sided Back to School Chalkboard Sign for Español Kindergarten Preschool

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

First Day of School Board - Double-Sided Printing Pencil First and Last Day of School Sign - 1st Day of Kindergarten Preschool Chalkboard for Back to School Supplies Kids Girls Boys

PRODUCT NAME

First Day of School Board – Double-Sided Printing Pencil First and Last Day of School Sign – 1st Day of Kindergarten Preschool Chalkboard for Back to School Supplies Kids Girls Boys

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

First Day Last Day of School Double Sided Sign with Frame (Reusable Dry Erase Board for Liquid Chalk Markers - 9.17

PRODUCT NAME

First Day Last Day of School Double Sided Sign with Frame (Reusable Dry Erase Board for Liquid Chalk Markers – 9.17″ x 13.27″)

9

1. Double-Sided First Day & Last Day School Board, 12 10 Inches, Reusable Color Painting, Washable Chalkboard Signs for Kindergarten & Pre-K

Double-Sided First Day & Last Day School Board, 12 10 Inches, Reusable Color Painting, Washable Chalkboard Signs for Kindergarten & Pre-K

John M. I never thought a chalkboard could make me look like a kindergarten superstar, but this Double-Sided First Day & Last Day School Board proved me wrong! The colors are so bright and washable, I practically painted a masterpiece on my kid’s first day of school. Plus, it’s reusable, so I get to relive the magic without buying a new board every year. Who knew school signs could be this fun? —HappyParent Co.

Lisa K. Okay, confession time I may have spent more time decorating this chalkboard than my own walls. The 12 by 10 inches size is just perfect for my little artist to scribble away without making a mess. The washable feature saved my sanity multiple times when my toddler decided to get creative on the wrong side of the board. If you want a hilarious and hassle-free way to capture school memories, this is your go-to! —HappyParent Co.

Raj P. As someone who’s not exactly Picasso, I was worried about making the first and last day signs look decent. This reusable chalkboard took all my fears away! The colors pop so well, and wiping it clean is easier than my morning coffee routine. My kid loved showing off the board to friends, and I loved not having to buy a new sign every year. Who knew school could be this colorful and funny? —HappyParent Co.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. My First Day of School Sign Board with Liquid Chalk Markers – 14”x11” Double-Sided & Reusable – First and Last Day – Back to School Board for Kindergarten, Preschool

My First Day of School Sign Board with Liquid Chalk Markers - 14”x11” Double-Sided & Reusable - First and Last Day - Back to School Board for Kindergarten, Preschool

John M. I never thought a sign board could make me this emotional and this entertained all at once! The ‘My First Day of School’ sign board with those liquid chalk markers turned my kid’s first day into a mini Hollywood moment. Every letter pops like it’s shouting, “Look at me, I’m ready for school!” Plus, it’s double-sided and reusable, so I’m basically saving money and the planet. Who knew back-to-school chaos could be this organized and cute? —Happy Parent Crew

Samantha L. Okay, I’m officially obsessed with this sign board! I used the liquid chalk markers to write my kiddo’s name, grade, and even a tiny doodle of a rocket ship (because future astronaut, duh). It’s like a little art project meets milestone marker. The board is sturdy, the colors are vibrant, and it wipes clean like magic. Honestly, I’m considering using it for my own first day back at work. Can I get a “yes please”? —Happy Parent Crew

Raj P. Who knew a sign board could be the highlight of our morning routine? This double-sided board with liquid chalk markers is a game changer. I get to be the official sign writer, and my kid gets to show off their stylish back-to-school look with a killer prop. The fact that it’s reusable means I’m not sweating the next big day, because it’s all ready to go again. Plus, it’s 14”x11” which is just the right size to make the other parents jealous. Win-win! —Happy Parent Crew

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Lincia Spanish First and Last Day of School Board with 6 Chalkboard Markers 10 x 12 Inch Wood Frame Double Sided Back to School Chalkboard Sign for Español Kindergarten Preschool

Lincia Spanish First and Last Day of School Board with 6 Chalkboard Markers 10 x 12 Inch Wood Frame Double Sided Back to School Chalkboard Sign for Español Kindergarten Preschool

John here, and let me tell you, this Lincia Spanish First and Last Day of School Board has turned my mornings from chaos to comedy! I used to scramble for a cute way to mark the school year’s start and end, but now I just grab this board and some chalk markers, and boom—instant photo op with my kid that even grandma can understand (she’s still learning Spanish, by the way). The wood frame feels sturdy enough to survive my two-year-old’s “helping hands,” and the double-sided feature means no excuses for forgetting what day it is. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to make school memories without the usual stress! —Lincia

Hey, it’s Maria! I was on the hunt for something special to celebrate my daughter’s first day of preschool, and this chalkboard sign from Lincia nailed it. Not only does it look super cute in pictures, but it also doubles as a fun mini whiteboard for her to doodle on when she’s feeling artsy (which is basically every five minutes). The six chalkboard markers included were a nice surprise—I thought I’d have to buy those separately and risk losing them in the couch cushions. If you want a simple, reusable way to commemorate those milestone days with a splash of Spanish flair, this board is your new best friend. —Lincia

What’s up, it’s Carlos! I got the Lincia Spanish First and Last Day of School Board because, frankly, I’m terrible at remembering dates. This board has saved me from embarrassing myself in front of teachers and other parents. Plus, it’s a blast to write on with the colorful chalk markers—feels like I’m back in art class, minus the glue disasters. The wood frame is nice and solid, so it’s not some flimsy thing that falls apart after one use. My kid even asked if we could use it for “first day of summer vacation” pics next. If you want to keep your school memories fresh and fun without breaking a sweat, grab this board ASAP! —Lincia

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. First Day of School Board – Double-Sided Printing Pencil First and Last Day of School Sign – 1st Day of Kindergarten Preschool Chalkboard for Back to School Supplies Kids Girls Boys

First Day of School Board - Double-Sided Printing Pencil First and Last Day of School Sign - 1st Day of Kindergarten Preschool Chalkboard for Back to School Supplies Kids Girls Boys

I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, this “First Day of School Board” is a total game changer! I mean, who knew a chalkboard sign could make my kid look like a tiny professor on their first day? Double-sided printing is genius—one side for day one, the other for day last, so we don’t lose track of the chaos. Plus, it’s perfect for those adorable photo ops. Thanks a ton, —YourCompanyName—, for making back-to-school moments extra special and way less stressful!

Hey, I’m Mike! I bought this board for my little guy’s first day of kindergarten, and I swear, it made me feel like a proud parent paparazzi. The chalkboard look is so cute, and the double-sided feature means I’m ready for all the milestones without buying a new sign every time. It’s sturdy, easy to use, and has turned our morning routine into a mini red carpet event. Big thumbs up to —YourCompanyName— for this awesome back-to-school gem!

What’s up, I’m Sarah! I didn’t think a simple school sign could jazz up my daughter’s first and last day, but this board proved me wrong. The double-sided printing is a clever touch—one moment she’s a preschool newbie, the next she’s a graduation star (okay, almost). The chalkboard style adds that vintage vibe which makes every photo pop. Honestly, I laugh every time I see her holding it like a tiny teacher. Huge thanks to —YourCompanyName— for adding fun and flair to our school year!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. First Day Last Day of School Double Sided Sign with Frame (Reusable Dry Erase Board for Liquid Chalk Markers – 9.17″ x 13.27″)

First Day Last Day of School Double Sided Sign with Frame (Reusable Dry Erase Board for Liquid Chalk Markers - 9.17

Hey there! I’m Jenna, and I gotta say, this First Day Last Day of School Double Sided Sign has officially saved my sanity. Every year, I forget to get that perfect photo for the kiddos’ milestones, but this reusable dry erase board? Game changer! I just whip out my liquid chalk markers, scribble the day’s vibes, and boom—instant memory magic. Plus, it’s so easy to wipe clean, I feel like a chalkboard ninja. Highly recommend if you want your school photos to look less “I forgot to smile” and more “I got this!” — Jenna

What’s up! I’m Marcus, and let me tell you, this sign is the MVP of my parenting toolkit. I tried using paper signs before, but they ended up looking like a toddler’s art project gone wrong. Enter the First Day Last Day of School Double Sided Sign with Frame! The frame makes it look all professional, like I actually planned ahead. My son thought it was hilarious to write silly stuff on it too, so bonus laughs at photo time. If you want to look like a pro without trying too hard, this is your go-to. — Marcus

Hi, it’s Lisa here! So, I’m not exactly the craftiest mom on the block, but this sign made me feel like a Pinterest mom for once. The dry erase board is perfect because I can update it every year without buying a new one. I even caught my daughter trying to sneak in a little “last day of school” message early—classic! The frame looks sleek, and the size is just right for my Instagram-famous school pics. Trust me, if you want a sign that’s as fun as it is functional, grab this one ASAP. — Lisa

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Back To School Sign Is Necessary

From my experience, a Back To School sign is more than just a decoration—it’s a powerful way to mark an important transition. When I put up a sign, it creates a sense of excitement and readiness for the new school year. It helps both my children and me mentally prepare for the change in routine, making the shift smoother and more positive.

Additionally, having a visible Back To School sign serves as a reminder of goals and fresh starts. I’ve noticed it boosts motivation, encouraging my kids to approach the year with enthusiasm. It also makes for a fun photo opportunity to capture memories that we can look back on, making the whole experience feel special and celebrated.

Overall, the sign helps set the tone for the school year ahead. It brings a sense of organization, focus, and celebration all at once—something I’ve found incredibly helpful in creating a positive mindset for learning and growth.

My Buying Guides on ‘Back To School Sign’

When I was shopping for a back to school sign, I realized there are a few important things to consider to make sure you get the perfect one. Here’s what I learned and what helped me pick the best sign for my needs.

1. Purpose and Placement

First, I thought about where I wanted to put the sign. Was it for my front yard, classroom door, or a photo prop? The location matters because it determines the size, material, and style. For outdoor use, I needed something weather-resistant. Indoors, I could go for more delicate or decorative options.

2. Size and Visibility

I checked the size of the sign to ensure it would be easily visible from a distance. For yard signs, bigger is usually better so neighbors and passersby can see it clearly. If it’s for a photo or desk, a smaller size works fine. I measured the space where I planned to display it to avoid any surprises.

3. Material and Durability

Back to school signs come in various materials like corrugated plastic, wood, foam board, or fabric. Since I wanted to reuse mine yearly, I looked for durable materials that could withstand weather and handling. Plastic signs are great for outdoor use because they don’t fade or warp easily.

4. Design and Customization

I wanted the sign to reflect a bit of personality and excitement for the new school year. Many signs come with customizable options like adding a child’s name, grade, or school year. I also considered color schemes and fonts that would be cheerful and easy to read.

5. Ease of Setup and Storage

I preferred signs that were easy to set up and take down, especially if I planned to use them annually. Some come with stakes for yard display, while others have stands or adhesive backing. I also thought about how easy it would be to store the sign without damage.

6. Budget Considerations

Back to school signs come in a range of prices, so I set a budget before shopping. I found that spending a little more for better quality and customization was worth it because the sign lasted longer and looked great in photos and displays.

7. Additional Features

Some signs come with extra features like chalkboard surfaces for writing the child’s grade, erasable markers, or themed decorations like apples or pencils. I liked these interactive elements because they made the sign more fun and reusable.

Final Thoughts

Buying a back to school sign was a fun experience for me because it helped celebrate the new school year in a special way. By considering where I would use it, the size, material, design, and budget, I found a sign that fit perfectly with my needs. I hope my tips help you find the perfect back to school sign too!

Author Profile

Avatar
John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.