Back-to-school season has always held a special place in my heart. Even now, as a teacher, I still get that same little flutter of excitement I had as a little girl.

When I was growing up, the best part of August was going school-clothes shopping with my mom. We’d make a trip to the city—just the two of us. That one-on-one time was priceless: laughing in the car, sharing lunch, strolling through rows of racks. I still remember the thrill of trying on new outfits and imagining walking into school on that first fresh morning. Honestly, if she called me today and said, “Wanna go back to school shopping?”, I’d be in the car before she finished the sentence.

Back to school breakfasts were another tradition Dylan and I always looked forward to. We’d have crêpes filled with Nutella and bananas or strawberries—or if you were Dylan, Nutella and syrup (yes, syrup!). Those mornings felt extra special, like a little celebration before the busyness of the school year began. This year, I get to make my own back-to-school breakfast, and I’ll be using the Stonewall Kitchen Farmhouse Pancake & Waffle Mix, serving it on the Breakfast Bar Serving Set, and sipping coffee from my World’s Best Teacher Mug.

I also loved walking into stores and seeing aisles brimming with pristine school supplies. It wasn’t just about getting what I needed; it was about picking the perfect things—the folders with the cutest animals slid into my cart almost every time—crayons, sharpened pencils, and markers, each holding so much creative promise.

Now, as a teacher, I get to live those moments in a whole new way. The moment my class list arrives, I start picturing each student—their spark, their story, the energy they'll bring to our classroom. Setting up my room feels like laying the foundation for our shared adventure.

One new tradition I’m excited to bring back? Back-to-school pictures complete with this adorable Back to School Ruler Felt Pennant Banner. I adore the idea of capturing that moment in time—wide smiles, nervous jitters, fresh notebooks in hand—with that banner as the perfect backdrop.

A sweet touch to complement that: a Classroom Rules Hanging Canvas right by the door. It’s not just décor—it’s a gentle, daily reminder of the community expectations that help us grow: kindness, respect, curiosity, and effort. Having that front and center communicates both structure and warmth—something I deeply value.

And on my desk, I’m eyeing the Amuseable Apple—a playful nod to tradition and a friendly face that brightens the space. I got my Amuseable ring for my engagement, and adding this apple feels like bringing something meaningful—and adorable—full circle into the classroom.

Of course, I’ll still have those little joys: Motivational Pencils lined up—20 sharpened #2s, each stamped with uplifting phrases like “dream big, darling” or “never let anyone dull your sparkle”—ready to spark creativity on day one.

Watching our volleyball players during tryouts brings that same spark—but for determination. Their early-morning drills, late-night practices, hustle, and fatigue—but still that drive—remind me why I love this season so much. Their grit, their teamwork—it’s inspiring to watch young athletes chase their goals, and I’m already cheering them on.

Back to school means early mornings, full days, and lots of energy—but also reconnections with students and colleagues I haven’t seen all summer. The hugs, the catch-ups, the collective excitement—it’s that sense of community rebooting that makes this time so special.

There’s nothing quite like this season. It’s fresh starts, sharpened pencils, banners for the first-day photo, rules that guide us, plush companions, special breakfasts, and so much possibility—and I wouldn’t trade a moment of it.

If you’re looking to add some extra fun and inspiration to your own back-to-school season, we have all of these teacher favorites and more here at The View Café & Gifts—stop in and see what’s new for fall. Whether it’s a sweet first-day photo prop, a cozy classroom touch, a special breakfast treat, or a desk accessory that makes you smile, we’d love to help you start the year in style.