Create a personalized card for each student. Write one letter template to be used for all students, but include a personal touch. For example, write, “I’ve enjoyed our time together in class,” for each student, but highlight a specific positive achievement or characteristic for each student. “I appreciate the way you’re always prepared for class,” would be one example.
Create an individualized certificate for each student. Design your own certificate using a graphics program or purchase blank certificates at an office-supply store. Give each student a special, positive award, such as “Best Listener,” “Neatest Handwriting” or “Funniest Student.”
Include a quote or a poem. Create your own poem incorporating class-specific events such as field trips or parties, or choose a quote related to endings and new beginnings. One example of an appropriate quote is, “Be well, do good work, and keep in touch,” by Garrison Keillor.
Participate in an end-of-year bonding activity. Have each student create a small memory book. They can create the book by folding two pieces of paper in half, and placing one sheet inside the fold of the other. Staple the papers together along the crease to form a book. Invite each student to draw their favorite classroom memories and collect signatures from you and other students.