10 Books for the Last Few Days of School

10 Books for the Last Few Days of School

Hey y'all. Easter is over, testing season is probably just beginning for everyone, and most of us ready for that summer break. While I would never start reading end of the year books to my class in April (we don't get out until the first week in June), I do start looking for new books and planning for the festivities.

The end of the year is always bitter-sweet (I may or may not have cried at the idea of leaving this sweet but silly class) and I try to make it special and as stress-free for my students as possible. So here's a few ideas for some great read alouds to end your school year on a sweet note. (Click the picture of the book to check it out on Amazon. This post contains affiliate links.)

1. Junie B. Jones is a Graduation Girl

Teacher confession: I love Junie B. She reminds me so much of my oldest daughter. Fun and spunky and trying to figure out life. I usually read this book mid-May, and even my 2nd and 3rd graders love it.

2. Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the Last Day of Kindergarten

Obviously, this is geared towards finishing up kindergarten, but even my 1st graders loved this story.  It's a special way to remember all the things the class has done together and to get ready to say good-bye for summer.

3. Last Day Blues

This is the sequel to the book, First Day Jitters. It's a charming way to say good-bye to your class on the last day. If you remember to read it. Last year, I completely forgot. #teacherfail

4. Mrs. Dole is Out of Control

This chapter book is a hilarious story of A.J.'s graduation fiasco. 2nd and 3rd graders will find this hysterical! Not just one thing happens to ruin graduation, but a whole series of unfortunate events occurs. Even I had a hard time containing my laughter as I read it aloud. It's a great, light-hearted read for the last week or so of school.

5. I Wish You More

Want a sweet send-off for your students? Kids of all ages will love this book. Just read it once before you read it to the class so you can get your sappy crying out of the way. If you're anything like me, this book will pull at your heartstrings.

6. Oh the Places You'll Go

A classic Dr. Seuss tale of moving on. You've probably read this one or even have a few copies of it yourself. If not, it's a great book about closing one door and opening another, full of both highs and lows.

7. I Knew You Could

Remember the Little Engine that Could? "I think I can, I think I can..." Well he did it. And we knew he could. This cute story is all about finishing the journey and the sense of accomplishment that goes with it.

8. A Letter from Your Teacher on the Last Day of School 

This book is written by the same person that wrote Our Class is a Family and A Letter from Your Teacher on the First Day of School. I read this book the second to the last day of school (our last day is a splash day) and it's a great way to tie the school year together. It's super sweet and even makes my students teary-eyed. 

9. What the Road Said

Cute, sweet, and funny. It's very similar to Oh, the Places You'll Go! so if you're wanting something fresh, try this one.

10. Curious You: On Your Way!

Curious You is a cute and sweet sendoff for any age of student. You'll send them on to the next grade and they'll know they always have you cheering them on. 

I know there are many other great end of the year books, but these are a few of my favorites. I hope you found some great new titles you'll love, too. May your last few weeks be smooth and productive!

Stay cozy,