The start of a new school year brings a mix of excitement, nerves, and fresh beginnings—for both students and teachers. One of the best ways to ease first-day jitters and set a positive tone is through back to school songs. These catchy, uplifting tunes can transform the classroom atmosphere, spark smiles, and build a sense of community from day one. In this post, we’ve gathered a handpicked selection of songs perfect for all ages—preschool to high school—and every moment, from morning arrivals to motivational assemblies. Let the music lead the way to a fun and successful school year!
Back to School Songs by Age Group
Back to school songs can vary widely depending on the age and energy level of your students. Below, we’ve curated age-appropriate playlists to help kick off the school year with rhythm and positivity.
Preschool and Kindergarten
For our youngest learners, songs that are simple, repetitive, and movement-based work best. These back to school songs help introduce routines, classroom behavior, and a sense of excitement.
1. “If You’re Happy and You Know It”
A playful spin on a classic that gets little ones clapping, stomping, and ready for school routines.
2. “The Wheels on the Bus”
A must-have song for transportation themes or circle time. Add your own verse to reflect classroom activities
3. “Hello!” by Super Simple Songs
Gently welcomes students into the classroom while helping them learn each other’s names.
4. “Good Morning Song” by The Singing Walrus
Ideal for morning routines and setting a cheerful tone.
5. “HELLO Song” by Maple Leaf Learning
A fun greeting song that’s perfect for first-day introductions.
Teacher Tips: Use hand motions and name games to boost engagement during sing-alongs!
Elementary School (Grade 1-5)
These students are full of energy and creativity. Fun, upbeat songs that include themes of friendship, school pride, and growth mindset will keep them singing and smiling.
1. “Getting Ready for School Song”
A pop-style tune that gets kids excited about returning to school.
2. “This Is the Way We Go to School”
Perfect for teaching daily routines and setting the tone for a structured day.
3. “School Days” by Chuck Berry
A throwback that older elementary kids can bop along to while learning about school in different eras.
4. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
This upbeat, feel-good song is perfect for creating a positive vibe in the classroom. With clean lyrics and a catchy rhythm, it’s ideal for first-day celebrations, brain breaks, or just dancing out the jitters.
5. “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars
Encourages kindness, friendship, and support among classmates.
Classroom Ideas: Use these songs for brain breaks, class parties, or to build a positive classroom playlist together.
Middle School (Grade 6-8)
Middle schoolers may shy away from kiddie tunes, but they still respond to feel-good music with strong lyrics and positive messages. Choose tracks that feel relevant and inspiring.
1. “Hall of Fame” by The Script ft. will.i.am
A motivational anthem for setting big goals at the start of the year.
2. “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors
Uplifting and energetic – great for assemblies or first-day slideshows.
3. “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson
Promotes resilience, confidence, and perseverance.
4. “High Hopes” by Panic! At The Disco
Inspires students to aim high and work hard from day one.
Assembly Tip: These tracks make great background music for student orientation videos and classroom intros.
High School
High school students gravitate toward popular music with emotional or nostalgic tones. Choose tracks that reflect independence, growth, and the journey of school life.
1. “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day
A classic for reflecting on school memories and milestones.
2. “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey
Iconic and powerful, ideal for pep rallies and welcoming assemblies.
3. “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield
Perfect for encouraging students to embrace the unknown of a new year.
4. “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons
A great track to play as students walk into the school building on the first day.
Pro Tips: Have student leaders or clubs help curate the back-to-school playlist – they’ll love the ownership!
Read more: Icebreaker Questions for Kids
Themed Back to School Songs for Classroom Activities
Music isn’t just for celebration – it can also be a powerful teaching tool. By aligning songs with classroom themes like self-awareness, motivation, and routine, teachers can reinforce social-emotional learning (SEL), support transitions, and create a classroom culture that’s positive and engaging. Below are themed back to school songs offer meaningful ways to integrate music into classroom routines.
First Day of School Songs
The first day sets the tone for the entire year. Calming or celebratory songs can ease nerves, build excitement, and help students feel safe and welcome.
1. “A Brand New Day” from The Wiz
This joyful tune is perfect for opening the day with optimism and energy. It encourages students to embrace the possibilities of a new year and can spark a positive mindset from the moment they walk through the door.
2. “Welcome Back” by John Sebastian
A nostalgic, feel-good classic to set a warm tone as students return to school.
3. “It’s a Beautiful Day” by The Kiffness ft. Rushawn
A modern, upbeat track that pairs well with morning check-ins or entry routines.
Classroom Tip: Play these during morning meetings or as students settle into their seats to create a calm, focused environment.
Motivation & Growth Mindset Songs
These songs reinforce the importance of persistence, self-belief, and learning from mistakes—core ideas in a growth mindset classroom.
1. “Try Everything” by Shakira (from Zootopia)
A classroom favorite that encourages students to be brave, keep trying, and never give up—even when things are tough.
2. “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten
A powerful anthem for resilience and self-empowerment. Great for middle and high school classrooms
3. “The Power of Yet” by Sesame Street
Especially greate for younger grades, this song introduces the concept of not giving up just because you can’t do something “yet.”
Teacher Tip: Use these during goal-setting lessons, reflection activities, or when students need an encouraging boost.
Classroom Management Songs
Routine songs help create structure and smooth transitions – especially in early elementary classrooms. From lining up to cleaning up, these tunes turn tasks into habits.
1. “Clean Up Song for Children” by EFL Learning
A must-have for preschool and kindergarten. It signals when it’s time to put away materials in a fun, musical way.
2. “The Line Up Song” by Rocking Dan Teaching Man
Catchy and instructional, this song helps young students learn how to line up quickly and calmly.
3. “Criss Cross, Applesauce Song” by Heidi Butkus
Reinforces sitting behavior during circle time or transitions.
Bonus Tip: Play these same songs consistently for routines. Students begin to associate the music with specific behaviors, making classroom management easier and more enjoyable.
Keep the rhythm going with more school appropriate songs for your classroom playlist.
Final thoughts
Back to school songs are more than just catchy tunes—they’re powerful tools that help ease transitions, build classroom culture, and spark joy from day one. Whether you’re teaching preschoolers or high schoolers, the right song can motivate, calm, and connect your students in meaningful ways. So don’t be afraid to mix genres, take student requests, or create a classroom playlist that reflects your community’s unique vibe.
And if you’re looking to keep that energy going beyond music, explore our collection of engaging and printable back-to-school worksheets at Worksheetzone. They’re the perfect companion to your classroom playlist and help make the first weeks of school both fun and productive!
