Back to School Essentials

Back to school season was still up in the air for many school districts until recently. While decisions to re-open vary by state, province and even by city, many schools have now been given the green light to move forward with a re-opening plan. Both public and private schools, as well as colleges and universities face particular challenges as they begin to plan for reopening amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools are busy places where it may be difficult to maintain social distance, so we created a shortlist of ideas using promo products to help staff and students safely return to the classroom.

As the focus is to keep everyone safe, the product at the top of the list is personal protective equipment (PPE) such as face masks, and other face coverings. This is important as many school districts are moving forward with in-person learning, and the use of these products can help diminish transmission. Schools, particularly those with uniforms, may consider giving returning staff and students branded masks that match their school colours and logos to encourage mask wear. We have a few options which range from reusable cotton masks, to fully sublimated polyester masks. You can provide different colour options, to help identify staff from students and have fun with it by creating fun colourful designs that are printed throughout the product, allowing you to customize masks from seam-to-seam.

Creating a safe environment through the use of is another way to help guide employees safely through an office, factory, or other workplace. Signage really has the potential to make it easier for students and staff to observe social distancing guidelines, by clearly identifying how far apart they should be standing when lining up to enter a room or waiting to receive service at a cafeteria or library for example. Floor decals may also be used to direct foot traffic in busy hallways, and other common areas. These will be particularly useful for large schools, colleges and universities to prevent people from congregating in one area.

As many school districts have implemented rotating schedules where part of the workload is completed online, think about providing products that enhance those virtual learning environments. Remote learning is a concept many schools are experimenting with for the first time, which creates an opportunity for your brand to be a part of the learning. This is a great time for businesses to give out free pens, notebooks and even tech related products which will be highly useful for students and teachers. As technology becomes increasingly important for continuing education, provide branded accessories and gadgets which contribute to making life easier in the classroom and at home.

As we deal with the challenges of reopening, promotional products can prove to be effective when used in conjunction with health protocols and social distancing guidelines. Branded products can play an important role in assisting to create and enforcing a safe environment for staff and students everywhere. Although we are all facing uncertainty about what the future will hold, we remain positive and committed to providing you with #TheRightStuff to help you have a successful school year.