Whether you’re wrapping up the school year or getting a head start on prepping for the next one, we’ve got a helpful checklist to guide you through decluttering your classroom, especially when it all starts to feel overwhelming!
1. Recycle Old Papers
Once the final bell has rung, let go of any remaining work from the year that students have not yet collected. That vocabulary quiz from November? Trust us, no student is coming back to retrieve it. Recycle anything that no longer serves a purpose.
2. Clear Off the Walls
Student work is great to display during the school year, but once students move on, their work loses relevance for new families and learners. Keep a few standout pieces as examples in a folder, but take the rest down to start fresh.
3. Refresh Your Supplies
Think of your classroom supplies like your favorite drinking glasses—frequently used and occasionally broken. Go through your markers, glue sticks, and colored pencils. Toss anything dried out or worn. If you’re a STEM teacher, dispose of chipped or broken glassware. It’s not only unusable but potentially unsafe.
4. Purge Outdated Materials
Educational content evolves. Keep your materials current and relevant. Say goodbye to outdated textbooks listing Pluto as a planet or maps still showing Czechoslovakia. That staff phone list from 2012? If it’s been updated five times, it’s time to let it go.
5. Part Ways with Old Tech
E-recycle outdated or non-functional electronics. We all have that mysterious cord that “might be important.” This year, if you haven’t found a use for it, it’s time to part ways. E-recycle outdated or non-functional electronics. Check with your school’s tech department about proper recycling or donation procedures.
6. Close Out the Lost and Found
That sweater that’s been hanging on the cubby hook since February? It’s time to donate it. Clear out any unclaimed student belongings before they become next year’s clutter. An exception to this rule could be for supplies such as folders, 3-ring binders, or writing utensils that could be used by future students.
7. Say Goodbye to “Maybe One Day” Projects
We all have that one activity we designed but never got to use? If it’s been sitting unused for years (and doesn’t fit your current teaching context), let it go. With your experience, you can now create something even better!
For the overachievers, labeling storage areas gives everything a “home,” encourages student independence, and helps visitors navigate your space more easily.
Out with the old, in with the new! Clearing out what you don’t need is the first step toward creating a space that works better for both you and your students. Once you’re ready to get your space in shape for next year, we’ve got more ideas to help you make the most of your classroom from day one.
About the Author
Amy Szczepanski (she/her) is a Professional Learning Specialist at Teaching Channel. She holds a B.S. in both Biology and Environmental Science, a Master’s in Teaching, and has been teaching since 2014. Amy uses her experience to create highly engaging and effective content for both teachers and students. She loves all things STEM and is passionate about teacher advocacy.
Fun fact: Amy’s favorite hobby is taking long walks through New York City searching for delicious treats.
