letter to a future student assignment

A Meaningful Exercise in Self-Awareness

Letters written to their future selves can strengthen students’ writing skills and encourage them to be more introspective.

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Casting a vision for the future requires first an acknowledgment of what the past offered and what the present holds. L.M. Montgomery captures this sentiment perfectly in her three-volume series about Emily Starr. The start of Emily of New Moon finds Emily having just lost her only living parent and moving into her spinster aunts’ New Moon farm. To soothe her grieving heart, Emily writes. In one of her particularly pensive moments, 12-year-old Emily decides to write a letter to herself, from “12 to 24.” She seals the envelope, tucks it away, and stumbles upon it 12 years later in Emily’s Quest as a young woman.

I was captivated by this idea when I first read the Emily books as a preteen girl navigating my own trials of middle school life. I had a hard enough time understanding who I was then, let alone trying to envision my future self. So on my 12th birthday, I wrote a letter to open on my next birthday, and for almost three decades now I’ve had a letter to open on March 24 from myself. 

It’s a habit and gift that I’ve tried to pass on to my students at every level I’ve taught—elementary, high school, and higher education. It really can be implemented for almost any subject and at any time in the school year, but I’ve generally looked for organic spaces for self-analysis and closure—right at the end of a semester or year. 

Explaining the Concept

When I first introduce the assignment, there are usually a lot of questions. “How do we even start it? What do we talk about?” So, we take some time to unpack the salutation—do they want to address themselves formally? Informally? Affectionately?

These questions have provoked interesting conversations about how students view themselves and, in some ways, how kind they are to themselves. Students are sometimes embarrassed to begin; they default to making self-deprecating comments and teasing others who look to be taking the assignment seriously. I remind the class that they will be looking back on this letter a year from now—how do they want to portray themselves? How might that future self read it? That lens often allows them more grace and kindness than they might normally grant themselves.  

We then talk generally about the idea of their future self reading this letter. I have them envision themselves a year from now—how might they have changed physically or emotionally? Do they anticipate being at a different school? A different house? Then, we imagine that future self, the one they now have fixed in their mind, opening and reading this letter. This is the perfect opportunity to dive into writing strategies such as descriptive writing or specific literary devices or strengthening sentence structures. I tell them that after a year of waiting, their future self deserves to read something well thought out, clear, and full of details.

Crafting the Letter in Three Parts

The body of the letter includes three different sections: the past, the present, and the future. Depending on the grade level I’m working with, we may spend one or multiple class periods on each section. 

Past: I encourage students to first think and free-write about particular difficulties they’ve had in the past few months. We talk about triumphs as well as challenges they’ve overcome. We also discuss any changes or transitions they may have just experienced, such as a new family member, new move, or new hobby. I’ve found that really taking time to reflect on and then write about the recent past affords them, when they do open their letter, some valuable perspective. It allows students to recognize the growth they’ve experienced, perhaps without even noticing it.

Present: Students generally have the easiest time with this section. We talk about writing about things that will serve as a placeholder or marker in time. They examine what currently occupies their life, and we discuss what those things might look like in a year. Issues that feel huge now might be much smaller in a year or, conversely, have turned into a significant addition or change in their life. I’ve often found the discussion during this section to be a good gauge as to how comfortable they are in their own skin. I note the things that the students have mentioned and observe how they sometimes carry over into other subjects or even the rest of the day and week. It helps me be more aware of their present context and allows me helpful insight into how I can better support them in specific ways.  

Future: This is the part that takes the most imagination and, often, encouragement from me. I suggest that they ask themselves questions—“How did the tae kwon do test go?” “Did you end up moving to Nebraska?” In pushing students to think where they will be in a year, it also rather cleverly makes them consider how they will get there. While the purpose of this assignment is not necessarily for them to plan their career trajectory or class schedule, there is something deeply valuable about speaking and writing things into existence, and there is empowerment in envisioning what may be.

4 Tips for Completion

• I never grade this assignment on content. In fact, I don’t even read it. I firmly believe that students need to write this letter for themselves and not for a grade.
• When we finish, I provide each student with a stamped envelope that they can address and put their letter in. (Obviously, there’s a chance that students may have moved within a year’s time, but that actually hasn’t happened too terribly often, and in some cases, I have been able to find a valid forwarding address.)
• Into each envelope, I slip a small note from myself with my mailing address and a request to write to me, if they’d like, and tell me how they are at the time they receive the letter. I have received many, many letters from students over the years. 
• I keep the sealed envelopes for them and mail them all out a year later. 

This assignment has remained a favorite among my students, and in my experience, it’s a worthwhile endeavor with meaningful end results.

10 Sample Inspirational Letters to Students (Copy Them!)

10 sample inspirational letters to students, #1. an inspirational letter to embrace challenges and grow stronger, #2. an inspirational letter to seize opportunities for growth and discovery, #3. an inspirational letter to set sail towards your dreams.

Wishing you smooth sailing on your journey towards the fulfillment of your dreams.

#4. An Inspirational Letter to Build Confidence and Unleash Potential

#5. an inspirational letter to embrace resilience in adversity, #6. an inspirational letter to ignite passion and find purpose, #7. an inspirational letter to make waves of change, #8. an inspirational letter to embrace diversity and enrich lives, #9. an inspirational letter to cultivate a growth mindset for success, #10. an inspirational letter to celebrate your journey and achievements, closing thoughts.

5 Letter To Future Self Examples For High School Students

Greetings, time-travelers, and future selves! Have you ever wondered what it would be like to communicate with your future self? Well, put on your wackiest imagination hats and join us on this journey. Writing a letter to your future self is a chance to step into a time machine and project yourself into the future. 

Think about it, what if in the future, we could travel back in time and meet our past selves? What would you tell them? Would you share some secrets or give them some sage advice? Writing a letter to your future self is the closest we can get to this phenomenon. It’s a chance to capture your current thoughts, hopes, and dreams, and send them off into the future.

Moreover, wouldn’t it be cool to have something like this on your bucket list? So, grab your pen, put on your craziest socks, and let’s start writing our letters to the future! Who knows what kind of zany adventures await us?

A time capsule from high school: A letter to my future self

Dear Future Self,

I hope this letter finds you well and happy. As I sit here writing this letter, I can hardly believe that several years have passed since I was in high school. I remember the excitement and anticipation of those years, but also the challenges and uncertainties that came with them.

If you’re reading this letter today, I hope you’re doing something that brings you joy and fulfillment. Maybe you’re pursuing a career that you’re passionate about or maybe you’re still figuring it out. Either way, I hope that you’re happy with the path you’ve chosen and the person you’ve become.

As I reflect on my time in high school, there are a few things I wish I could tell my younger self. First, I would remind myself to be kind to others, even in the face of adversity. Second, I would encourage myself to take risks and try new things, even if it felt uncomfortable or scary. And finally, I would tell myself to trust the journey and have faith in my own abilities.

So, if you’re ever feeling lost or uncertain about your future, remember these three things. You are capable of achieving great things, and you have the strength and resilience to face whatever comes your way. Keep pushing yourself to grow and learn, to take risks and try new things, and always remember to be kind to yourself and those around you.

Your Past Self

I hope this letter finds you happy and healthy, with a life that you love. As I write this, I am a high school student with dreams and aspirations that I hope to achieve in the future.

When I think back on my high school years, I remember the moments of self-doubt and uncertainty that sometimes held me back. But I also remember the people who believed in me and encouraged me to keep pushing forward. If you’re reading this letter today, I hope you’ve continued to surround yourself with positive influences who support and inspire you.

As you reflect on your journey thus far, I hope you can look back with pride on all that you’ve accomplished. Whether you’ve pursued a career that you’re passionate about or traveling the world to experience new cultures, I hope that you’ve lived a life full of adventure and purpose.

If there’s one thing I want to remind you of, it’s this: don’t forget to take care of yourself. In the pursuit of your dreams, it’s easy to forget about your own well-being. But self-care is essential for living a happy and fulfilling life. So, take the time to rest and recharge, explore your passions and hobbies, and prioritize your mental and physical health.

I believe in you, and I know that you’re capable of achieving great things. Keep pushing yourself to grow and learn, take risks, and try new things, and always remember to take care of yourself along the way.

Dear Future Me,

I hope this letter finds you well, happy, and surrounded by the people you love. As I write this, I am filled with a mix of excitement, anticipation, and a little bit of fear. Excitement because I know you have achieved great things and have lived a life full of adventure, anticipation because I can’t wait to see what the future holds, and fear because I know that life is unpredictable, and anything can happen.

One thing I know for sure is that you have not let fear hold you back. You have always been a risk-taker, willing to step out of your comfort zone and pursue your dreams. I hope you have continued to do so and that you have found success in everything you have set your mind to.

I also hope that you have stayed true to yourself and that you have not to compromise your values or beliefs to fit in with others. You have always been authentic, and I hope you have continued to be true to who you are.

Lastly, I hope that you have found happiness in all aspects of your life. That you have cultivated meaningful relationships, pursued your passions, and found fulfillment in your work.

Remember, you are capable of achieving great things. Keep pushing yourself, stay true to who you are, and never stop dreaming.

I can’t wait to see what the future holds!

Your past self

As I write this letter, I’m a high school student with big dreams and aspirations for my future. One thing that has always been important to me is making a positive impact on the world around me. I hope that, by the time you’re reading this letter, you’ve found ways to make a difference in the world.

Whether you’re working in a field that directly impacts people’s lives or volunteering your time to support a cause you’re passionate about, I hope you’ve found ways to use your talents and resources to create positive change.

But I also know that making a difference in the world can be overwhelming and exhausting at times. So, if you’re ever feeling burnt out or discouraged, remember that every small action counts. Whether it’s a kind word to a stranger or a donation to a local charity, every act of kindness and generosity adds up to make a difference.

I believe in you and your ability to make a positive impact in the world. Keep pushing yourself to grow and learn, to take risks and try new things, and always remember that even the smallest actions can make a big difference.

Your High School Self

As I write this letter, I’m a high school student with a passion for creativity and self-expression. Whether it’s through writing, painting, or music, I’ve always found joy in creating something new and unique.

If you’re reading this letter today, I hope you’ve continued to nurture your creative spirit and pursue your passions. Maybe you’ve published a book, exhibited your art in a gallery, or performed on stage in front of a live audience. Or maybe you’ve simply found ways to incorporate creativity into your everyday life.

Whatever your creative pursuits may be, I hope they bring you joy and fulfillment. And if you ever find yourself feeling stuck or uninspired, remember that creativity takes many forms and can come from unexpected places. Take a walk in nature, try a new hobby, or simply take a break and let your mind wander. You never know what new ideas or inspirations might come your way.

I believe in you and your ability to create something beautiful and meaningful. Keep pushing yourself to explore new ideas and take creative risks, and always remember that your unique perspective and voice are valuable and worthy of expression.

Many high school quotes suggest that in writing these letters to our future selves, we are setting goals and aspirations for ourselves. We are acknowledging our current selves and our hopes for what we will become. It’s important to remember that our futures are not set in stone and that we have the power to shape them.

Whether it’s reflecting on our past selves, making plans for the future, or exploring our passions and creativity, each of these letters is a reminder of who we are and who we want to be. As we continue to grow and evolve, we can look back on these letters as a source of inspiration and motivation.

So, let’s continue to write these letters to our future selves as a reminder of our dreams, aspirations, and goals. Let’s strive to become the best versions of ourselves and to create a future that we are proud of. The possibilities are endless, and the future is ours to shape.

Sananda Bhattacharya, Chief Editor of TheHighSchooler, is dedicated to enhancing operations and growth. With degrees in Literature and Asian Studies from Presidency University, Kolkata, she leverages her educational and innovative background to shape TheHighSchooler into a pivotal resource hub. Providing valuable insights, practical activities, and guidance on school life, graduation, scholarships, and more, Sananda’s leadership enriches the journey of high school students.

Explore a plethora of invaluable resources and insights tailored for high schoolers at TheHighSchooler, under the guidance of Sananda Bhattacharya’s expertise. You can follow her on Linkedin

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My favorite end-of-the-year activity for high school: letter to future self

One of my favorite end-of-the-year activities I’ve ever done with my students is an end-of-the-year letter to themselves. I did this one year that I had seniors. I had them write a letter to their future selves, and I told them I would mail the letters to them in one year.

Several days before we begin the assignment, I tell students that they will be writing a letter to themselves and that I’ll need for them to bring in a self-addressed, stamped envelope. I collect the self-addressed stamped envelopes for several days before the actual assignment, and I keep them organized and separated by class period and then in alphabetical order.

The main reason why I collect the self-addressed, stampede letters for several days is so that more students bring them in. I usually let them know about the assignment on a Thursday so they have the weekend to get the supplies, and then we usually don’t write until the end of the next week.

I provide envelopes and stamps for all of the students who did not bring in their own. Usually, there are not that many. Also, I suggest checking with your school because they might mail the letters for you! Also, if you are looking for more end-of-the-year activities for middle school and high school students, you might want to check out this blog post .

Since I did this activity with seniors, we first discussed the big steps they were about to take including graduating from high school, possibly going away to college, possibly starting at a community college, possibly joining the military, or possibly joining the workforce. We also talked about hopes, dreams, goals, and aspirations for the year after high school. I also shared stories about my first year away at college with them as well. I shared fun experiences like moving into the dorms, challenging experiences like learning how to navigate an entirely new city all on my own, and how I managed to juggle a part-time job with school work.

Then, I asked them to think about what they hoped to accomplish in the year following high school. I asked them to think about what they wanted to learn, what they hoped to achieve, and where they wanted to be in one year from now.

For the actual assignment, they turned in their letters in sealed, self-addressed, stamped envelopes. I didn’t read the letters. They were not for me; it was an assignment for my students. It was a credit/no credit final assignment. On the day they wrote the letters in class, they were engaged. I could tell they were really thinking about what to write to their future selves. I put on some music for some ambiance, and it was a memorable moment. The air was heavy with optimism, excitement, and a bit of trepidation.

After all of my students turned in their letters, I stored them in a filing cabinet for a year. Exactly one year later, at the end of the next school year, I reminisced about my amazing senior classes from the years prior (and they truly were amazing classes. I missed those students so much the following year) as I took out the envelopes and put them in the mail.

Possible Reflection Questions If your students need some extra guidance, here are some reflection questions you can write on the board to help your students think about what to write.

• Where do you hope to be in one year?
• What do you hope to have accomplished in one year?
• What do you want to be working towards?
• How do you think this next year will go?
• What are you most excited about for this next year?
• What are you most worried about for this next year?
• How can you help make the world a better place?
• If you aren’t where you want to be in one year, what advice can you give your future self?

More End of the Year Activities End of the Year Activities for Secondary Students Growth Mindset End of the Year Activities End of the Year Mini Flip Book

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A Letter to Future Students from a Current Student

Dear Future Geneva Jack or Jill,

College is nothing like you ever imagined it to be. It is so much better. You don’t know this yet, but you are about to go through a dramatic change that will shape you into adulthood. You will encounter experiences and people that will cause you pain, incredible joy, deep sadness,  and unimaginable blessings all in the course of your time at Geneva. You will be transformed into a new person from the time you graduate high school to the time you walk across the stage at your class graduation in four years.

You will find your favorite hideout to study, your perfect blend of coffee at the Riverview or BFCAT, the best desserts at Alex’s, your ideal professor, and your best friend.

You will find yourself missing your friends while you are home on breaks and you won’t be able to wait to go back to Geneva to see them. You might get used to the food on campus, but that will just make you appreciate your Mom’s cooking all the more!

You will learn early on what you value and make sacrifices to benefit your education. You will learn how and when to extend grace to others and your character will develop as God allows it. You will learn that there will be times to mourn and times to be joyful, but most of all, you will learn to mourn with others and be joyful with others.

Geneva is not just a college; it is a catalyst that will guide you to be a follower of Christ in every aspect of your life. You don’t know yet how much God will change your heart in the next four years and I can promise you that He has amazing plans for you that all begin at Geneva.

There is a community here that will welcome you with open arms and wants to do everything in its power to make your college experience everything and more than what you imagined it to be. So, use what Geneva offers you to your advantage and do not be afraid to ask for help. Be an encouragement to your neighbors and know that you are doing a great work by following your dreams. 

By the time you move into your dorm room and meet your roommate for the first time,  I will have graduated, but that doesn’t mean that I won’t be praying for you along with countless others who have gone before me. It is my prayer that you grow in your walk with the Lord at Geneva and that He uses the gifts that He presents to you here for the furtherance of His kingdom.

Blessing on your time at Geneva. 

• Commit To Geneva

Opinions expressed in the Geneva Blog are those of its contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions or official position of the College. The Geneva Blog is a place for faculty and contributing writers to express points of view, academic insights, and contribute to national conversations to spark thought, conversation, and the pursuit of truth, in line with our philosophy as a Christian, liberal arts institution.

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Example Letter to My Future Self (With Structure Suggestions)

This example letter to my future self puts into practice the many tips and best practices that help you get the most of out the exercise.

This example of a letter to your future self is based on what I wrote this year for Future Chris to read a year from now.

I’m sharing it so you can see how I put into practice the extensive tips and suggestions I’ve covered in other posts. To make the structure clear, I’ve broken it up with headings. They aren’t actually part of the letter.

I’ve also changed some details and replaced chunks with “ [blah, blah, blah] ” for brevity and privacy.

Jan 6, 2022

How’s it going? It’s me, your younger, hopefully less wise, less wealthy, and less actualized self here.

• Start off with the present.

Where are you, and what’s going on in your life?

I’m writing you while drinking an americano in Origin Coffee in Cape Town. Kim’s across from me because we just dropped off our rental car from our trip to Plett.

The trip was s-Plett-tacular! Memorable moments were [blah, blah, blah].

Also, the trip was a timely reminder of how awesome it would be to live right on the beach. Let’s make that happen one day.

The driving was also a reminder of how much more of a hassle it is with a baby. Man, I hope Zac’s learned to like his car seat more by the time you read this. But, even if not, I hope it hasn’t slowed you down from going on trips and adventures.

Anyway, I just finished recapping last year and reading the letter I wrote to myself on the Orange River on Dec 30, 2020. You might want to read it, too. I was blown away by how much of what I had written then I had forgotten. For example [blah, blah, blah] .

Goes to show how bad our memories and perceptions of our past selves are. These letters help me remember that.

What has you worried, frustrated, and excited?

Reading the letter and recapping the year was a wake-up call.

I feel I’ve gotten too complacent with the blog. And as fun as it’s been to make videos and write Consider This , their growth fell below predictions. Way below. Also, [blah, blah, blah] .

But the biggest surprise from the letter from my past self?

Many of the things I’d planned to write to you to focus on in 2022, my past self wrote to me to get done in 2021! I’ve been passing the buck rather than building momentum. No bueno.

Let’s change that this coming year.

On the bright side, I think I’ve finally—FINALLY—started to get a grasp of the branding and vision for the blog. My plan now is “go full unconventional” and [blah blah blah] .

Outside of “work,” life’s pretty sweet.

Zac’s just started crawling, mimicking us, and even standing. He makes lots of noise and loves to roughhouse. And he often crawls over to me when I come home to play with me! It’s like having a dog at this point… but way cooler because [blah, blah, blah] .

As fun as raising Zac is, it’s been a blessing to have Irene come look after him a few days a week, and the odd night, so Kim and I can go on date nights. (Remember our attempt at a date night with Zac at Zest? Disaster. Chaos. Haha.)

My relationship with Kim is going as well as could be expected. Aside from a few debates on food and eczema treatment, we’ve been a cohesive team. And I’m encouraged that she’s going to make huge progress professionally in the year to come because [blah, blah, blah] .

Financially, I made [x] last year and my portfolio’s gone from [y] to [z]. Below expectations of [a, b, and c] from last year, but not disastrous. The problem is, expenses picked up from [x] to [y]. This has me worried. I’m struggling to figure out fun, sustainable, and beneficial-to-others ways to monetize. $15k per month, I feel, would be enough for us to do whatever we want comfortably.

Maybe it’s worth considering a completely different business that’s less fun and spiritually rewarding but more financially lucrative? (So basically anything…) Some ideas are [blah, blah, blah] .

What’s going on in the world at large?

Or maybe there’s some way to get involved in all this web3 brouhaha? A creator coin or something? Probably not, though. I feel like it’s a lot of hype pumped up by people who make money from the attention. A lot of hype. All this crypto, NFT, DAO, stuff was one of the top stories in my bubble of the world this year.

Inflation, too, like we predicted.

And, of course, COVID. So many people we know got it in December, but somehow not Kim, Zac, or I. [blah, blah, blah] .

Climate change seems to be moving more and more to the center of the general public’s radar. Hard to avoid with crazy weather like the heatwave in Vancouver in June. Remember that? Camping out at the park by the beach all day to avoid overheating at home, then retreating to Kim’s parents’? Wild.

I predict (hope) that pretty soon a lot of the hype (and $$$) directed towards mostly meaningless NFT-esque crap goes toward greener technology. Maybe not in a year, but soon.

• Look back before looking forward.

Before getting into more predictions, here’s a recap of some of what’s changed between Jan 1 and Dec 31 of this past year:

• Investment portfolio performance: [blah, blah, blah] (Big lesson: Trust your gut more. Every time you delayed or didn’t act, it cost you. Examples are [blah, blah, blah] .)
• Blog traffic, subscribers, stats, income: [blah, blah, blah] .
• Favorite things I’ve learned and mind changes I’ve made: [blah, blah, blah] .
• Most memorable moments: [blah, blah, blah] .
• Other big changes in my life and the life of those around me: [blah, blah, blah].

As you can see, for the first time, I spent a lot of time recapping 2021. It was worth it. You ought to do the same for 2022.

• Brainstorm and ask for help.

One more big mind shift I made in 2021 came from reading books like Designing Your Life , Dedicated , and Four Thousand Weeks . I’ve come to conclude we ought to commit one way or another and move on with it rather than overthink things or keep our options open.

But I’m still unsure about what to commit to.

These are the big questions I’m thinking a lot about:

• Have another kid or not? Before having Zac, [blah, blah, blah] .
• Try new ways to make more money with the blog, or redirect that time to more efficient but perhaps less rewarding and fun money-making endeavors? My thinking now is [blah, blah, blah] .
• Change the name of the blog? I was strongly leaning toward changing it to something “Fresh” related, but recent conversations have me swinging the other way. [blah, blah, blah] .
• Where to live? Cape Town’s awesome, but far from family and old friends in Vancouver. Should we look harder at a beach town in Mexico or Costa Rica? I was thinking [blah, blah, blah] .
• Should I hire a coach? No doubt the right coach at not too ridiculous of a price could be the best investment I could make, but how do you find that? Or I? The curse of being so independently-minded is it’s hard to find someone we’ll listen to. My plan now is to [blah, blah, blah] .
• Should I start something new—new hobby, friends, language, business, podcast—or go deeper on the things I already love doing?

What do you think? Or what new questions have jumped to the forefront for you?

• Make a bunch of predictions.

Anyway, enough with the stress-inducing tough questions. Time for some fun stuff:

Predictions!

Make predictions about your future life.

I bet you’ll be in Cape Town again, reading this. You’ll probably be sitting on a patio overlooking the sea because I learned this year just how much that’s worth to us.

Differences between you and me I predict:

• You’ll have a few more grey hairs, but still not visible. Same amount of head hair. Maybe a bit more facial hair. Almost enough to finally have a beard.
• In the same shape, if not slightly better. More mobile, for sure, cuz you’ll have kept up with your daily mobility and maybe even hired someone in Vancouver.
• You’ll finally be decently good at beach volleyball. The solo practice at Virgin will pay off.
• You’ll have 2-3 new little daily habits that you’ll have incorporated into your life thanks to various experiments and 30-day challenges throughout the year.
• You’ll have some idea about a book you want to write.
• You’ll be spending less time making YouTube videos. Maybe considering a podcast?

Memorable moments:

• Zac will say his first word in March and it’ll be something to do with food, like “baba” to mean bottle.
• Zac will take his first step by the end of Feb.
• Zac will have 8 teeth.
• We’ll have gone on one big road trip to the US over the summer and I’ll have done another escape to nature, leaving Zac and Kim behind.
• We won’t visit any new countries.
• [blah, blah, blah]

Make measurable predictions.

• My net worth will be around [x] .
• The blog will have made [x] and I’ll have dipped my toes into something new but not dove into it yet.
• Traffic, Consider This subscribers, YouTube subscribers will be [x, y, z] .
• Zac will weigh 26 pounds, so slightly above average, but not a ton.
• I will only read 20 new books this year because I’ll re-read and review many from the past.
• [x] will be in a serious relationship. [y] will still be single.
• [x] will be engaged. Maybe even married.
• [x] will be separated or divorced.

Make wild card predictions.

• The Nets will win the NBA title. The Raptors will lose in the first round. MVP will be… it’s a crapshoot… KD?
• The Super Bowl… I really can’t even bother guessing because I gave up the NFL this year!
• The stock market’s going to be down for the year, adjusted for inflation.
• Bitcoin will be roughly the same as today, $45k US.
• More advances in preventing and treating COVID will mean no more masks indoors by June in Vancouver.
• The hype about web3, the metaverse, NFTs, and all that will have died down substantially. Or I’ll have completely escaped from hearing about it, because it doesn’t make much difference to my day-to-day life.
• South Africa, Cape Town especially, is going to be crazy with tourism in December. With more digital nomads, too. Pent-up demand and good PR are going to give it the hype it deserves.

End with the most important message you want to send.

Ok. My hand’s getting tired from all this writing. But it’s been fun to let loose my thoughts upon you.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this and got something out of it, like I did reading last year’s letter.

I’ve gotta run to go do a workout with Alex and Darren. It’s a beautiful, scorching hot day. I’m already looking to plunging in the pool after. And then I’m looking forward to returning to work on the blog.

Bigger picture, I’m looking forward to this coming year.

If you still believe like I do that our life’s y-axis is “Growth,” let’s keep making moves (and not thinking too much) that push us upward in that direction.

So here’s to continuing living a life full of adventures and always having more to look forward to.

Yours truly,

To recap, here’s the structure from my example:

• End with your most important message.

For more guidance and ideas on future self letter writing, check these out:

• How to Write a Letter to Your Future Self
• The Benefits and Lessons of Writing a Letter to Your Future Self
• Extensive Tips for Writing a Wonderful Letter to Your Future Self

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How to write a letter to yourself: Capture a memory

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Hi there! Writing a letter to the future can be a powerful experience. And receiving a surprise letter from the past can be an even more powerful experience. Check out the testimonials all of the people who agree! .

• To your next birthday (obviously!)
• To a date by which you predict we are "back to normal" and recovered from the Covid-19 pandemic. What did we learn?
• Uma data que você atingiu um objetivo importante (Se formou? Se casou? Aposentou!)
• Write a story in present tense about your life in 5 years ("You are sipping coffee in your new home...") and paint a picture of your future self's day.
• To yourself, when you will be your parents age.
• To your kids, when they will be your age. Or to the age when you think you will have kids.
• To your spouse/partner, on your 10th (20th? 50th?) anniversary (you must create an account first to write to someone else!)
• To the year 2030, when the IPCC says we must hit Greenhouse Gas Reduction goals to keep Global Warming below 1.5 degrees celsius.
• To yourself, while you're on your next vacation.
• ...Or...while on vacation, to yourself when you've back "to the grind."

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This Third Grade Teacher’s Writing Assignment Will Inspire You in All the Best Ways

It’s inspired a recent novel, too.

It was a hot, sunny day in August 2016 when my dear friend, Christina, a third-grade teacher on Long Island, offhandedly mentioned an assignment she had given her eight-year-old students every year since she began teaching over 20 years ago.

She instructs them to write a letter to their 18-year-old selves.

Because the children are only eight years old, her classroom often erupts with questions like: “What do you mean by my future self?” Christina must prompt them to imagine themselves older. But she also reminds them to consider what is important to them now, so their adult selves won’t forget.

She then tells the students to place the letters in an envelope, address it to themselves in their childhood hand, and write on the back of the envelope: A Letter from the Past with a Message for the Future.

Christina then holds onto the letters for a decade, until she mails them back to the students on the week they graduate high school.

When I heard this story, I had deep emotional reaction to it. I was blown away by Christina’s dedication, as this assignment doesn’t end that day or even that week, but lasts for over ten years. It shows not only the extraordinary commitment Christina has toward her job as an educator and her students, but also her foresight.

She is creating a time capsule for her students of what their aspirations are at that moment in their lives. When the kids receive their letters, they get a rare glimpse back to their younger selves. But the timing of its return is also especially poignant, as students are about to leave their childhoods behind and enter college as young adults.

Christina’s students say they often don’t recognize their own handwriting when the letter arrives in their mailbox.

They think a small child has written to them. But when they open the letter, they instantly travel backwards into the past.

When they share the letter with their parents, everyone sees how much growth has happened in those ten years. Christina shared that she even had a parent who framed her child’s letter because it captured not only much she had evolved as a student, but also how much of her spirit had stayed the same.

But students aren’t the only ones who change. Teachers do, too.

My friend has taught for over twenty years, so every June when she goes down to her basement to peer into her store chest of letters, she too is different. As she reads the letters one last time before mailing them out, it forces her to ponder herself from two directions. Who was she that year of teaching, and who is she now? Also what stands out in high relief about each student as she reads their words and imagines their unfurling future ahead?

As a novelist, I couldn’t stop thinking about this assignment and all of its implications.

In fact, I ended up using it as part of the inspiration for my most recent book, The Secret of Clouds. Although I would create my own fictional characters for my novel, I knew the essence of the assignment would become the foundation for the story. I wanted this novel to be my love letter to teachers, a way of expressing my own personal gratitude for those teachers I’ve had in my own life and my children’s.

When I write, I’m drawn to characters who learn about themselves through personal connections. When I spoke with other educators while researching The Secret of Clouds I would tell them: “I want to show how you leave a lasting fingerprint on your students.” But unequivocally, the universal response from every teacher was: “But make sure you emphasize how much our lives have also been changed by our students!”  I think that says it all.

Alyson Richman is the internationally bestselling author of seven novels. Her most recent book, The Secret of Clouds , focuses on a mother’s love, a child’s heart, and a teacher’s promise.

We’d love to hear—would you try a letters to our future selves–style assignment? Come and share in our WeAreTeachers Chat group on Facebook. 

Plus, why I leave positive Post-it notes for my students every morning.

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23 of the Best 3rd Grade Anchor Charts for Your Classroom

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7 Inspiring Examples: How To Write a Letter to Your Future Self (Guide)

By Status.net Editorial Team on June 24, 2024 — 13 minutes to read

Writing a letter to your future self means capturing your current thoughts, dreams, and goals to revisit at a later date. This unique exercise helps you reflect on your personal growth and progress. Imagine opening a letter from your past and seeing how far you’ve come.

The purpose of this letter is to set aspirations and track achievements. It’s important because it allows you to set clear intentions for your future. For example, you might write about where you hope to be in five years, including career goals, personal milestones, or even travel plans.

The benefits of writing this letter are numerous. It offers a therapeutic way to process your current state while providing a valuable frame of reference for future self-improvement. It also serves as a motivational tool, pushing you toward achieving the goals you’ve set for yourself.

7 Incredible and Heartfelt Examples of Letters to a Future Self for Personal Growth

Dear Future Me,

I hope this letter finds you thriving and satisfied with your career journey. Right now, I’m working hard to build a strong foundation for my professional life. I recently received a promotion at work, which was a huge accomplishment. It feels great to see my efforts recognized. I’ve been taking on new projects and learning so much every day.

I know there will be challenges ahead, like balancing work with personal time and continuing to grow in a competitive field. Are you still passionate about your work? Have you achieved the leadership role you dreamed of?

How are your relationships at work? I’m fortunate to have supportive colleagues and mentors. They’ve been instrumental in my growth. I hope you’ve continued to nurture these professional connections and perhaps built new ones.

Keep believing in yourself. You’ve come so far, and I’m confident you’ll achieve even more.

With determination, Present You

I hope this letter finds you well and happy. Right now, you have just started a new job, and you’re excited about the possibilities. Remember how you felt on your first day—nervous yet thrilled. I hope you have achieved your goals and found satisfaction in your work.

By the way, have you taken up that painting class you always wanted to try? Don’t forget to make time for your hobbies and loved ones.

Sincerely, Your Past Self

Hello Future Self,

It’s been a crazy year! You graduated college and moved to a new city. I know you were worried about making new friends and finding your place, but I believe in you. Have you kept in touch with your college buddies? I hope you’ve made new, meaningful connections as well.

You’re probably looking for a job that suits your skills, and it may feel challenging. Keep pushing forward and stay positive.

Best wishes, Your Earlier Self

I hope you’re surrounded by love and happiness. Right now, I’m working on strengthening my relationships with family and friends. We’ve been spending more quality time together, and it’s been wonderful. I’m trying to be more present and make lasting memories.

How is your family life now? Did you manage to create the warm, loving environment you always wanted? Are you spending enough time with loved ones? I’ve been focusing on finding a balance between work and personal life, and it’s not always easy. But it’s important.

I’ve also been exploring new hobbies, like painting and hiking. They bring me so much joy and peace. Have you kept up with these hobbies, or maybe found new ones that you love?

Remember, the relationships and moments we cherish today shape our future. Keep nurturing them and making time for what truly matters.

With love, Present You

Hi Future Me,

Today, you’re celebrating your 30th birthday. Can you believe it? As you read this, remember how much you’ve grown and all the experiences you’ve had. Are you still passionate about travel? If not, what’s taken its place?

Please cherish the moments with family and friends. Have you settled into a career you love? I trust you’re happier and wiser.

Warm regards, Your Younger Self

I hope this letter finds you well. Today is June 22, 2024, and I’m 30 years old. Right now, I’m focused on advancing my career and improving my health. Have you achieved the promotion you were aiming for? Remember how you felt nervous about that big presentation? I hope it went well and boosted your confidence.

Take care, Your Past Self

Dear Future Self,

I hope you’re feeling healthy and strong. Right now, I’m making a conscious effort to take care of my body and mind. I’ve started eating healthier, drinking more water, and exercising regularly. Yoga has become a new passion, and it’s helping me stay centered and calm.

Are you still prioritizing your health? It’s so important. How do you feel physically and mentally? I’ve been trying to manage stress better, finding time to relax and do things that make me happy. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.

I’ve also been focusing on mental well-being, practicing mindfulness, and staying positive even when things get tough. Are you still taking time for self-care and mental health?

Remember, taking care of yourself is the best investment you can make. Stay healthy and happy.

With care, Yourself

How to Write a Letter to Your Future Self

Getting started, choosing the right time and place.

Picking a quiet, comfortable setting aids concentration. Opt for a time when you feel most alert.

Morning or late evening might offer fewer distractions. Ensure you have essentials like pen and paper or a digital device ready. Reducing external disturbances will help you think more clearly.

Visualize your goals and current state in this calm environment, enhancing the personal touch and depth of your letter. A serene atmosphere fosters reflection and meaningful writing.

Inspiration and Creativity

Inspiration fuels your letter’s content. Reflect on past experiences, achievements, and lessons learned. An old photo album or journal may stir memories and emotions.

Try listing significant life events or dreams for the future, sparking ideas. Enjoy the process without overthinking, allowing your creative juices to flow naturally.

Visual aids, quotes, or even music can trigger valuable insights, helping align your vision with your writing. Keep the tone personal and genuine.

Crafting Your Message

Begin with a greeting. Address your future self warmly, as if speaking to a dear friend. Detail your current life, feelings, and ambitions. For instance, “Today, I’m 25 and excited about my first job.”

Move on to hopes, dreams, and advice. Encourage yourself, noting both aspirations and challenges. It’s important to include questions you hope to answer over time.

End with a closing statement that reassures and motivates. You might say, “I believe in you. Keep pursuing your dreams.”

Writing Your Letter

Setting the tone.

Choose a tone that feels natural and genuine to you. Imagine you’re writing to a close friend; this approach can help you feel more relaxed and open.

For example, start with a greeting such as:

• “Hey Future Me, I hope this letter finds you well.”
• “Dear Future Self, it feels strange writing this, but here goes!”
• “Hi there, future me! How’s life treating you?”
• “Hello Future Self, I’m writing this letter to share some thoughts.”
• “Dear Future Me, it’s your past self, checking in with you.”

Set a tone that will make reading the letter an enjoyable and comforting experience. Be kind to yourself; remember, you’re addressing your future self with empathy and understanding.

Incorporating Key Life Aspects

Consider what aspects of your current life are most important to share with your future self. Reflect on your goals, priorities, and any dreams or aspirations you have. Ask yourself meaningful questions that your future self can reflect upon.

• “Right now, my top priority is graduating from college with honors.”
• “I aspire to travel to at least three new countries by next year.”
• “Some questions I have for you: Are you happy with your career choices? Have you achieved the fitness goals you set?”
• “I am grateful for the support from my family and friends through challenging times.”
• “My current goals are to learn a new language and to complete a half marathon.”

Reflecting on the Present

Current achievements and challenges.

Recognizing your accomplishments means acknowledging both professional and personal milestones. Maybe you got a promotion at work, completed a big project, or started a new hobby. These achievements result from your hard work and dedication. On the other side, it’s important to note the challenges you face. Balancing work and family life, overcoming health issues, or managing financial stress are examples. This reflection offers perspective on how far you’ve come and where you wish to go.

Expressing Present Emotions and Thoughts

Being honest with your feelings means capturing your emotional state. Write about your happiness, anxieties, and hopes. Are you content with your job? Are you feeling stressed about a particular issue? What are your dreams for the future? This reflection allows you to see growth in your emotional well-being and thought processes as time passes.

• Feeling proud of recent accomplishments
• Experiencing career-related stress
• Feeling excited about future prospects
• Battling feelings of self-doubt
• Enjoying quality time with family
• Feeling anxious about financial stability
• Relishing moments of peace and calm
• Stressing over health issues
• Feeling grateful for current blessings
• Dreaming of future adventures

Acknowledging Relationships and Support

Examining your relationships means noting the significant people in your life. This includes your love life, family, and friends. Consider the support systems you rely on, such as a supportive partner, understanding friends, or caring family members. These relationships shape your experiences and provide the emotional and practical support that aids your journey.

• Cherishing a supportive partner
• Enjoying close friendships
• Leaning on family during tough times
• Seeking advice from a mentor
• Building a strong bond with siblings
• Sharing special moments with friends
• Finding comfort in parental support
• Nurturing a budding romance
• Showing appreciation for supportive coworkers
• Maintaining a healthy work-life balance with support networks

Looking Toward the Future

Career and professional goals.

Think about where you want your career to be in the future. Do you aspire to be in a leadership role, or perhaps start your own business? Consider your desired work environment and the kind of impact you want to make. Reflect on the skills you need to acquire and the milestones you aim to achieve.

• Achieving a promotion to a management position
• Completing a professional certification or degree
• Switching to a more fulfilling career path
• Starting your own company or freelancing
• Expanding your professional network
• Leading a significant project or initiative
• Receiving an industry award or recognition
• Developing a new product or service
• Learning a new skill like coding or public speaking
• Balancing work and personal life effectively

Personal Life and Family Aspirations

Consider your personal life and family aspirations. Whether you hope to start a family, strengthen relationships, or cultivate personal hobbies, these goals shape much of your daily life and long-term happiness. Reflect on what kind of family environment you wish to create and how you want to spend quality time with loved ones.

• Getting married
• Having children or growing your family
• Buying a home
• Strengthening relationships with family members
• Traveling to new places with loved ones
• Celebrating major life events such as anniversaries or birthdays
• Creating family traditions
• Spending more quality time together
• Supporting your kids in their education and hobbies
• Developing personal hobbies and interests

Health and Well-Being

Reflecting on your health and well-being is essential for long-term happiness and fulfillment. Think about physical and mental health goals, such as staying active, eating well, and managing stress effectively. Your future self will appreciate the efforts you make today to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

• Adopting a regular exercise routine
• Eating a balanced and nutritious diet
• Scheduling regular health check-ups
• Practicing mindfulness and meditation
• Getting enough sleep each night
• Reducing stress through hobbies or relaxation techniques
• Staying hydrated
• Building a support network of friends and family
• Quitting harmful habits like smoking
• Setting realistic health goals and tracking your progress

Sealing and Storing the Letter

Deciding on an open date.

Choose a meaningful date to open your letter. This could be an anniversary, a birthday, or a significant milestone. Make sure to pick a date far enough in the future to allow for personal growth and reflection. For example, you might decide to open the letter on your 30th birthday or after five years. Commit to this date, and mark it on your calendar. Setting a reminder on your phone or email can help you stay committed to this date.

Safekeeping Your Letter

Store your letter in a safe place where it won’t be easily damaged. A drawer, a keepsake box, or even a safe are good options. If you want to get creative, consider sealing the letter in an envelope with wax or a special sticker. Ensure the place you choose is both secure and memorable, so you don’t forget where you put it.

Anticipation and the Future Reveal

The anticipation of opening your letter can be exciting. Think about what you hope to achieve or experience by the time you open it. A reminder set for the open date can build excitement as the day approaches. When you finally unseal your letter, it will offer a unique opportunity to reflect on your past self and see how much you’ve grown.

Conclusion and Moving Forward

Now that you’ve written a letter to your future self, think about how this experience can shape your outlook. Writing to your future self helps you commit to your goals and offers a unique way to track your personal growth.

Keeping the momentum going is important. Set a reminder to read your letter in the future. This could be in one year, five years, or even a decade.

Consider writing more letters to your future self at different stages in your life. Each letter can serve as a checkpoint for your learning and aspirations.

Writing to your future self is not just a one-time activity. It’s a habit that can bring clarity and purpose. Write frequently, reflect often, and enjoy the journey of self-discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i include in a letter to my future self.

Consider including your current goals, dreams, worries, and achievements. Reflect on recent events and how you feel about them. You might also want to ask your future self questions about how life has changed or what’s been accomplished.

How do I start writing a letter to my future self?

Begin by addressing your future self directly. Set a date for when you’ll read it. Introduce the current context of your life, mentioning details like the date, your age, and significant aspects of your present situation.

What tips can you give for writing a reflective letter to my future self?

Be honest and open about your feelings. Think about what aspects of your life you want to examine in the future. Reflect on your current emotions, challenges, and achievements. Use the opportunity to offer advice or words of encouragement to your future self.

In what ways can I make my letter to my future self meaningful and inspiring?

Write from the heart and be genuine. Share your dreams and aspirations, no matter how big or small. Reflect on your growth and what you’ve learned lately. Pose questions that your future self might find intriguing or motivating.

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Write a letter to your future self.

Your child's "letter to himself" is a low-stress way for him to begin thinking about future goals and also spend some time reflecting on his life. This activity also provides an opportunity to talk about the future without all the urgency of SATs and college applications. Keep the letter he composed to his future self, and surprise him with it at graduation! He will delight in seeing how far he has come, and he will once again be able to evaluate his goals.

What You Need:

• Writing utensil

What You Do:

• Before you begin, help your child brainstorm what he will write about. Ask him things such as: What are your current academic and social goals? What activities and people are important in your life? What are your current likes and dislikes? Where do you see yourself in 5 years, and what do you think you will be doing?
• Have your child compose the letter as if he is writing to himself in 5 years. He can add a little something extra by embellishing the letter with pictures or sketches, or simply adding these extras into the envelope.
• Have him read over the letter. When he feels that it's complete, have him put it in an envelope and seal it.
• Put the letter away until his high school graduation and then encourage him to open it up to see how his goals have changed!

Use this letter writing process as a way to talk to your child about what is important to him, and what he hopes to achieve in high school and beyond!

Related learning resources

Add to collection, create new collection, new collection, new collection>, sign up to start collecting.

Bookmark this to easily find it later. Then send your curated collection to your children, or put together your own custom lesson plan.

Purposefully pause.  Think critically. Reflect on your teaching and your students' learning.

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• Dec 10, 2020

Recast Student Reflection with Letters to Future Students

Updated: May 17, 2023

Alexandra Babino , Texas A & M University - Commerce

Jacqueline riley , texas a & m university - commerce.

What type of reflection on the part of educators and students leads to deeper learning and under what circumstances? For both educators and students, the place of reflection in transformational change has been simultaneously an unquestioned constant and site of critique (Beauchamp, 2015).

Generally, the onus of responsibility for reflection is on the individual, whether it be the individual educator or individual student, instead of a collective, organizational pursuit (Reynolds & Vince, 2017). However, engaging in reflection with others, especially with those who have shared the experience, can reinforce or extend learning in the same experience (Hartog, 2017). Thus, while typically engaged as an individual pursuit, reflection leading to transformational learning can be a social process that aides all those involved.

In our teaching, we have found one strategy that has allowed us to minimize the emergence of the same challenges year after year: current students' writing advice to future students. We have seen that by giving our current students time to provide guidance to future incoming students, we not only learn how our students are experiencing our classes, but our students also take the opportunity to reflect personally on significant learning and develop a sense of empowerment as they can give a seasoned perspective to future students. We've even noticed how this activity encourages students to reflect on how their decisions during the class impacted their learning and success within the course.

In turn, the advice provided by previous students serves as a guide to future students as they navigate the expectations for the course.

Creating Structure

Indeed, we could keep the question open-ended and ask, "What advice would you give to incoming students who will take this class?" Yet, we have found it more advantageous to request that their advice be more pointed and directed in regard to specific topics. For example, in a recent class, Author 1 (Babino) was interested in what advice her current students would give to future students regarding working with herself and specific strategies students employed for success in the course on particular assignments.

Afterward, you can also consider the direction you'd like to lead your students. Are there particular policies that students have struggled with understanding and applying? Are there specific assignments that have proven to be more challenging? We've found students benefit from added attention to the attendance policy; for online classes, we've seen students benefit from clarification around managing the course load and late work policies.

Writing Guiding Questions

After having a general idea in what direction we'd like to take our students, we draft the questions. An example of some prompts we wrote for a recent class include:

What general advice would you give students who are taking this class next semester?

Which assignments were the most challenging, and why? What can future students do to be successful on these assignments?

If you could go back and do something different this semester, what would it be? Why?

Students' responses to questions about course design and content provide us with useful information.

Explaining the Advice-Giving

After we've written our questions, we share them with our students. Although we prefer to solicit our students' opinions electronically through an online survey (i.e., Survey Monkey, Google forms, Qualtrics), you can just as well type the questions on a Word document. Begin with sharing your purpose for the activity. You might want to mention that you're interested in receiving feedback yourself, as well as providing them with an opportunity to pay it forward to future students. Be sure to explain that you will be sharing what they write with your future classes. Then, allow students approximately 5 minutes to answer the questions before collecting their responses.

Reviewing and Considering

Once you've collected the advice, it is important to read them carefully and consider the responses. Are there pieces of advice that you may not want to share but serve as important feedback to you? For instance, one-semester Author 1 had a student say that future students didn't need the book. Although she understood the notion of wanting to save a fellow student the cost of the book, it made her wonder why the student felt that way. It was an excellent opportunity for her to reflect on how to interweave the book even more into coursework and explain the importance of reading to future students.

After considering the useful advice:

Evaluate if there are themes or groups of like-advice.

Summarize the tips under the categories identified. There could be one category for studying tips, communicating with the instructor, or certain assignments.

Organize students' advice into like-groups.

Furthermore, consider versions of the same type of advice given many times as both good feedback to you and as a tool to highlight the importance of this advice to future students. You could say something to the effect of, "the advice given most often by previous students was to…."

Sharing the Advice

Last but not least, share advice from previous students as it relates to your new class. We usually like to start a new semester by sharing some general advice from past students regarding policies. Then, as we work through the semester, we'll share quotes of what students said related to the assignments with tips to tackle them.

Why It Works

Allowing your current class to advise future classes serves three purposes:

It's a reflection tool for your current students and yourself.

It empowers your current students.

It provides added punctuation to your future classes as you share previous students' tips.

Overall, it is a set of pedagogical practices that allow future students and yourself to work more efficiently while allowing your current students to reflect differently.

Discussion Questions

1. What additional learning can occur for current students as a result of writing letters to future students?

2. What additional learning can occur for current professors as a result of writing letters to future students?

3. How might the insights gained from this practice inform future pedagogical practices for professors?

Beauchamp, C. (2015). Reflection in teacher education: issues emerging from a review of current literature. Reflective Practice , 16 (1), 123-141.

Hartog, M. (2017). Educating the reflective educator: a social perspective. In M. Reynolds and R. Vince (Eds.). Organizing reflection (pp. 170-185). London, UK: Routledge.

Reynolds, M., & Vince, R. (2017). An introduction in M. Reynolds and R. Vince (Eds.).

Organizing reflection (pp. 1-14). London, UK: Routledge.

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15 Examples of Awesome End-of-Year Letters to Students

Saying goodbye to students can be so hard. After spending a whole year working together, it’s impossible to imagine our classrooms without them! One of the best ways to show them how much they mean to you is to write end-of-year letters to students. Below you’ll find tips for creating these special messages and 15 of our favorite examples.

Top tips for writing end-of-year letters to students:

Use a template.

The end of the year is super hectic, which is why it’s a good idea to use a template for your end-of-year letters.

Keep it short

We make a lot of memories with our kids, but trying to create a highlight reel for everyone would be tough. It’s better to keep your end-of-year letters to students short and sweet. Even if it’s brief, it can be heartfelt.

Personalize

Even if you use a template, there are ways to customize your letters. Of course, you’ll want to address your notes to each student by name. Along with your signature at the bottom, though, you can mention one special thing you’ll remember about them so that it feels more personal.

Examples of end-of-year letters to students:

Still not sure what you want to write? Here are our top 15 examples and templates that you can follow!

Sometimes a poem can capture our feelings better than any letter ever could. This sweet printable is perfect for letting your students know how much they mean to you, while also reinforcing language skills. It’s a win-win!

Before your students fly off into summer break, let these superheroes know just how proud you are of all they’ve accomplished. This template allows you to create one-of-a-kind messages for students and also includes two parent letters that can be printed or emailed.

Finish the year with a meaningful and engaging assignment that promotes social-emotional learning and critical thinking. Empower students to share advice and tips for academic success and general life and well-being.

If you’re looking for a great end-of-year letter template that’s easy to personalize, look no further! This sample can be customized for students of all ages and grade levels, allowing you to share those bittersweet words of encouragement efficiently and effectively.

Want to let your upper-grade students know you think highly of them but don’t want to write end-of-year letters? Give them awards! This package includes 28 customizable awards, as well as bookmarks and templates for a “letter to future students” activity. And if you’re looking for awards for younger students, here’s a free printable bundle of awards perfect for elementary school .

These adorable bookmarks are the perfect way to end the year on a good note and give your students something to reflect on as they read over the summer.

Remind students about all of the good you’ve seen in your classroom! This editable end-of-year letter can be filled with supportive and encouraging messages from teachers throughout the school. What a way to help kids finish strong!

Coming up with the right words to say thank you to parents and/or guardians at the end of the year can be tough. This template will help you create a thoughtful message that can be tailored for each student.

Congratulate students on all of their hard work with this editable end-of-the-year greeting card. Take the opportunity to highlight their achievements and give them a sweet souvenir to reflect on for years to come.

The end of the school year is the closing of one door and the opening of another. Thank your families for all that they’ve done with this simple letter.

This set contains 43 pages of end-of-year letters as well as Google Slides in case you want to send paperless messages. It’s important to note that while the greeting and signature fields can be edited, the body of the letters cannot. However, each letter in the set contains a different message and comes with a boy, girl, and gender-neutral version (the pronouns are changed throughout the letter).

As a final thank-you and goodbye to the families you have worked with this year, send this editable letter to share the kind classroom community your students have built and show appreciation for the trust invested in you as their teacher. This template is available as Word and Google documents.

Give your students these heartfelt tokens at the end of the school year. They can be personalized so it’s easy to highlight and include some memorable moments so your kids can reflect on how far they’ve come this year.

Help your students capture lasting memories with this sweet End of Year Autograph Booklet. You can print single- or double-sided to create a keepsake that will be a fun activity for kids as the school year comes to an end.

End-of-year reflections are wonderful, so why not make the activity even more meaningful by having them write letters to next year’s students? Have them write about what to expect in your classroom, favorite assignments, tips for success, and more. Not only will this be a fun way to welcome your future students, but you’ll also gain a lot of insight from reading what they shared!

Do you have more great end-of-year letter examples? Share in the comments below!

Plus, check out these teacher cover letter examples ., want more articles like this be sure to subscribe to our newsletters , dig deeper with our longreads, newsletter sign up to get our best longform features, investigations, and thought-provoking essays, in your inbox every sunday..

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