Here's to a Bright School Year Gift Tag

First Day of School Tags with Gift Ideas

The first day of school is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a celebration of fresh beginnings, new friendships, and the excitement of learning. Whether you’re a parent sending your child off to a new classroom, a teacher welcoming your students back, or a school staff member trying to boost morale, a simple, thoughtful gesture can go a long way.

One of the easiest and most delightful ways to make the day special is with printable 1st day of school tags . They add a personalized, creative touch to small gifts, treats, or welcome kits—no matter your budget.

In this post, you’ll discover:

  • Ideas for using printable back-to-school tags

  • Affordable and adorable gift pairings

  • How to print, prep, and present your tags

  • Fun ways to use these tags for kids, teachers, and coworkers

Let’s dive into how you can make this school year start off sweet, calm, bright, and welcoming with these 11 printable tag ideas!

1. “Here’s to a Bright School Year” School Tags

This cheerful tag matches perfectly with anything colorful, high-energy, or sunshine-themed.

Gift Suggestions:

  • Crayons, highlighters, or markers

  • Glow sticks or a mini flashlight

  • Brightly colored erasers or pencils

Student Version: Add it to a pencil pouch filled with school supplies.
Teacher Version: Attach it to a fun desk accessory or sticky note pack.

2. “A Little Treat to Make the First Day Sweet” School Tags

This tag is perfect for students or teachers alike. Attach it to any small candy bag, cookie, or even a fruit cup.

Gift Suggestions:

  • A mini bag of Skittles, Starbursts, or Hershey's Kisses

  • A homemade or store-bought cookie wrapped in clear cellophane

  • A fruit snack pouch or granola bar for a healthier touch

Pro tip: Use colorful twine and cardstock to make the tag pop against the treat!

3. “Thanks for Poppin’ By. See You on the First Day of School” School Tags

This playful tag is great for back-to-school meet-and-greets or orientation nights.

Gift Suggestions:

  • Mini bags of popcorn (butter, kettle, or caramel)

  • Pop Rocks candy

  • Pop-it fidget toys for younger students

Tip: Display these in a basket at the classroom door for parents and students to grab on the way out!

4. “Because School Supplies Aren’t Just for Students” School Tags

This one is designed with teachers and school staff in mind. Give a little something to make them feel seen and appreciated too.

Gift Suggestions:

  • A pouch with pens, sticky notes, and highlighters

  • A mini notepad with cute paperclips or washi tape

  • A mason jar filled with Sharpies or flair pens

Packaging Idea: Use kraft paper gift bags and attach the tag with a clothespin for a charming, rustic look.

5. “May Your Students Be Calm and Your Coffee Be Strong. Happy New School Year!” School Tags

This one’s a favorite among caffeine-loving educators who are about to juggle classroom chaos and curriculum planning.

Gift Suggestions:

  • A Starbucks or Dunkin’ gift card (even $5 makes a lovely gesture)

  • A coffee pod or instant latte packet in a cute mug

  • A cold brew bottle with a reusable straw

Pro tip: Pair it with a calming tea option for those rare quiet moments.

6. “Of All the Fish in the Sea, I’m Glad You Were Picked for Me. Welcome Back!” School Tags

Great for teacher-to-student gifts, or even student-to-teacher gifts from parents.

Gift Suggestions:

  • Swedish Fish candy bags

  • Goldfish crackers (classic or colorful!)

  • A mini ocean-themed toy or eraser

Creative Spin: Put it all in a little fishbowl or clear bag with blue paper shreds.

7. “You’re a Smart Cookie. Welcome Back!” School Tags

This classic tag is sweet and simple—perfect for celebrating brains and snacks.

Gift Suggestions:

  • Chocolate chip cookie in a cellophane bag with ribbon

  • Cookie sandwich with a milk bottle or juice box

  • Cookie-shaped eraser or pin for a non-edible version

Tip: Great for PTO/PTA welcome back gifts too!

8. “Let’s Start the Year Off Write!!” School Tags

Ideal for encouraging creativity and kicking off the academic year with a pun!

Gift Suggestions:

  • A pencil set or cute pen

  • A mini journal or notebook

  • Personalized stationery or sticky note set

Classroom Idea: Line up these gifts on desks for open house night or the first day.

9. “I Am Happy to O-Fish-Ally Be Your Teacher. It’s Going to Be a Great Year.” School Tags

Teachers can use this tag to add a splash of humor and friendliness on Day 1.

Gift Suggestions:

  • Goldfish crackers or fish gummies

  • A fish-themed bookmark or sticker

  • Mini aquarium toy or squishy stress fish

Classroom Idea: Make a bulletin board or desk station decorated like an “o-fish-al welcome zone.”

10. “Welcome Back” School Tags (Personalized Tag)

Add names, dates, or grade levels for a customized and memorable gift. Great for students, staff, or whole classes.

Gift Suggestions:

  • Welcome folder with schedule, rules, and supplies

  • Nameplate or personalized bookmarks

  • A classroom newsletter or small welcome gift bag

Bonus: These also make excellent yearbook or memory keepsakes!

11. “Back to School Survival Kit” School Tags

Every teacher needs one of these! Create a small care package with this tag for staff, coworkers, or even student teachers.

Gift Suggestions:

  • Mini hand sanitizer, lip balm, Advil, gum, tissues

  • Granola bar, chocolate, instant coffee, sticky notes

  • A small motivational card or affirmation quote

Packaging: Use a pencil box or a zipper pouch to keep everything neatly together.

How to Use Printable School Tags for Back-to-School Gifts

Here’s how to get the best results:

Printing Tips:

  • Use high-quality cardstock (white or kraft paper)

  • Print on your home printer or at a local print shop

  • Use a paper cutter or punch for clean, even edges

Attaching Tips:

  • Hole punch and tie with ribbon or twine

  • Use a mini clothespin to clip it onto a bag

  • Print sticker versions to peel and stick

Who Are These School Tags For?

These back-to-school printable tags work well for:

✅ Teachers welcoming students
✅ Parents surprising their children’s teachers
✅ PTO/PTA organizing welcome gifts
✅ Principals or school admins encouraging staff
✅ Room moms preparing first-day goodies
✅ Homeschool parents marking the start of the year

Final Thoughts: Make the First Day Count

Printable 1st day of school tags offer a heartfelt way to celebrate the new year without breaking the bank. Whether you’re gifting candy, coffee, crayons, or simple school supplies, these tags elevate the gift from practical to personal.

You don’t need to be crafty or spend a lot of time. Just download, print, and pair with a thoughtful treat—and you’ll be ready to spread some serious first-day-of-school cheer!

Grab your printable tags, pick a few fun treats, and make someone smile as the school year begins. 📚🍎

If you enjoy these First Day of school tags , I would love to give you more gifting ideas.  Subscribe to my Gifting Email  to get new ideas delivered to your inbox. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for all my latest updates.

One last thing, I have a freebie section on the website that has proven to be a very fun library for my customers. Check it out Here!

Happy Gifting :) xoxo, Casey

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.