I live near the Minnesota State Fair. If you know, you know. And if you don’t know, let’s just say it’s kind of a big deal. One of the largest state fairs in the nation, in fact. Google it.

Growing up in St. Paul, school always started the day after Labor Day. Why? Because the State Fair ends on Labor Day, and there was absolutely no way school buses were getting through all that traffic before then.

People love the State Fair, and honestly, kids and parents were always pretty happy about that extra bit of summer. The fair meant cheese curds, Sweet Martha’s cookies, crowded streets, and one more reason to hold off on backpacks, homework, and alarm clocks.

For us, the end of the State Fair meant the beginning of a new school year. Once the Tuesday after Labor Day rolled around, kids were up and ready to go to school. My job was to feed them, get them to the bus stop, and bless them before they left. Below are two that I used. The last one is best if you make up a tune. Happy first day of school!

Blessing for a New School Year for Older Students:

As you begin another school year,
may you have courage for what is hard,
curiosity for what is new,
and confidence in who you are becoming.

May you find good people, ask good questions,
make mistakes, learn from them, and keep going.

And when life feels uncertain, remember:
you do not walk alone.
God goes with you into every classroom,
every challenge, and every new beginning. Amen.

Blessing for a New School Year for Younger Students:

Verse 1
As backpacks zip and school bells ring,
May God bring joy to everything.
With pencils sharp and spirits bright,
May you begin each day just right.

Verse 2
When homework piles up way too high,
And you feel like you might just sigh,
May God give wisdom, strength, and grace,
And help you find your learning place.

Verse 3
When making friends feels strange or new,
May God send kind and caring people to you.
And may you be the kind of friend
Whose welcome and love never end.

Verse 4
When answers seem so hard to find,
May curiosity fill your mind.
Keep asking questions, big and small—
God gave you wonder after all!

Verse 5
When you make mistakes—and yes, you will—
May you keep trying, learning still.
For every stumble, bump, and fall
Can help you grow a little tall.

Verse 6
May teachers, helpers, friends, and more
Be blessings waiting at your door.
May every person that you meet
Help make your year both kind and sweet.

Verse 7
When days are busy, loud, or long,
Remember: you are brave and strong.
God walks beside you every day,
At school, at home, at work, and play.

Verse 8
So go with courage, hope, and cheer—
God goes with you throughout the year!
May love and laughter light your way,
And bless your school year every day.

Amen.