Student Teacher Bag Essentials: What to Pack for a Successful Placement

Feeling All the Feels Before Student Teaching? You're Not Alone!

Are you starting your student teaching placement in a few weeks? If so, you might be feeling a whirlwind of emotions, excited, overwhelmed, unsure, and maybe even a little disorganized. Trust me, I’ve been there (I won’t say when!).

Student teaching is a transformative experience, but it can also be emotionally intense. It’s totally normal to feel like you’re riding an emotional rollercoaster. The good news? You’re not alone, and you’ve got EduMagic to guide you through it.

What I Wish I Knew Before Student Teaching

When I started my student teaching journey, I thought I was ready. I had a three-ring binder, a folder, and my clearances. But I quickly realized I didn’t know what I didn’t know. I struggled with organizing materials, reflecting on lessons, and even knowing what to observe. Here’s what I learned the hard way: preparation is key. And that starts with packing the right items in your student teacher bag.

Student Teacher Bag Essentials: Must-Have Items for Your Placement

Grab your free student teacher bag checklist here

Here’s a fun, actionable list of what to pack in your student teacher bag to stay organized, energized, and professional throughout your placement:

Daily Essentials

• Teacher mug & reusable water bottle. Choose a travel mug that’s microwave and dishwasher-safe. Brands like Contigo or Yeti are great (though not microwave-safe). Your mug can even be a conversation starter with students!

• Healthy snacks: Think trail mix or multigrain bars. Check your school’s policy on snacks and allergies first!

• Student teacher planner. Whether digital or printed, a planner helps you stay on top of lessons, meetings, and reflections.

• Notebook paper & sticky notes. Use them for quick observations, student encouragement, or jotting down ideas.

• Pens, pencils, highlighters, and Sharpies. Brighten up your notes and feedback with your favorite colors.

  
  

Hygiene & Health

• Hand sanitizer & lotion. Keep your hands clean and moisturized throughout the day.

• Mini first aid kit: Include band-aids, cough drops, and Tylenol (check school policy).

• Stain remover stick: A TIDE to-go stick is a lifesaver for unexpected spills.

• Personal care items: Pack a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, deodorant, chapstick, hair ties, and bobby pins.

• Mints or gum, such as Altoids, are a refreshing choice to keep your breath fresh.

  
  

Tech & Tools

• Chargers for your phone and laptop. Stay powered up all day long.

• Laptop and phone: Keep your phone on silent and tucked away during lessons to stay professional.

  
  

Professional Extras

• Updated resume and business cards. You never know when a networking opportunity will pop up!

• Extra clothes. Accidents happen - you might spill coffee or get paint on your outfit, so having a backup outfit is always a smart move.

• School ID or badge lanyard. Use a clip-on badge holder to keep your ID visible and accessible.

You've Got the EduMagic in You!

Student teaching is a journey filled with growth, learning, and yes, lots of emotions. But with the right tools and mindset, you’ll thrive. I’m cheering you on every step of the way! Don't forget to grab the Student Teacher bag essentials list below.

Grab the list here

Stay Connected with Dr. Sam Fecich

Want more inspiration and support on your teaching journey? Let’s connect!

🎯 Discover Your Student Teacher Superpower: Take the free quiz and uncover your unique strengths in the classroom: What’s Your Student Teacher Superpower?

📸 Join the Conversation on Instagram. Tag me @sfecich with your thoughts and takeaways from this post!