Back to School Tech Checklist Made Simple

🏁 Before Students Arrive 

Set yourself up for a smooth start: 

• ☐ Log in to all key platforms (LMS, Teams, email, apps) 

• ☐ Check class lists and course enrollments 

• ☐ Update your LMS homepage (welcome message, banner, basic layout) 

• ☐ Upload or link your course outline / key documents 

• ☐ Test projector, speakers, and any classroom tech 

📚 Organize Your Digital Classroom 

Make things easy to find from day one: 

• ☐ Create clear modules or folders (Week 1, Unit 1, etc.) 

• ☐ Use simple, consistent naming (e.g., “Day 1 – Getting Started”) 

• ☐ Add a “Start Here” section for students 

• ☐ Pin or highlight important resources 

💬 Communication Ready 

Avoid repeated questions by setting expectations early: 

• ☐ Post a “How we’ll use technology in this class” message 

• ☐ Share communication guidelines (when/how to ask for help) 

• ☐ Set notification preferences (yours and student guidance) 

• ☐ Prepare a quick announcement for Day 1 

🧠 Student Access & Inclusion 

Make sure all learners can participate: 

• ☐ Check links and files open correctly 

• ☐ Use accessible formats (readable fonts, clear layouts) 

• ☐ Provide instructions in more than one format (text + visual if possible) 

• ☐ Identify any students who may need alternative access 

🔐 Safety & Digital Citizenship 

Set the tone early: 

• ☐ Review student login expectations and privacy basics 

• ☐ Remind students not to share passwords 

• ☐ Outline appropriate online behavior 

• ☐ Check device login/logout procedures (especially shared devices) 

⚡ Quick Wins (Optional but Helpful) 

If you have 5 extra minutes: 

• ☐ Create a reusable assignment template 

• ☐ Bookmark your most-used links 

• ☐ Set up a simple feedback form (Microsoft Forms, etc.) 

• ☐ Prep a “day one” tech activity or check-in 

💬 Final Thought 

You don’t need everything perfect on day one. 

A clear, simple, and organized setup will do far more for you (and your students) than adding more tools or complexity.