 In Germany, children receive a Schultüte (school cone) on their first day of school. This colorful, cone-shaped package is filled with school supplies, small toys, and sweets, making the milestone extra special for first-graders. The tradition dates back to the 19th century.

What is the name of the colorful, cone-shaped package filled with school supplies, small toys, and sweets that children receive on their first day of school in Germany?

 In Japan, the school year begins in April, coinciding with the cherry blossom season. On the first day, children often dress in their new uniforms and carry a randoseru (sturdy leather backpack). Parents and teachers emphasize values like teamwork and respect.

In Japan, what is the traditional leather backpack that children use on their first day of school?

Italian primary school classrooms often maintain traditional elements, like desks with ink wells, reflecting the country’s rich educational history.

 Desks arranged in a circle to promote equality

Large blackboards used for collaborative art and learning

Individual student desks equipped with built-in ink wells

A "teacher’s stage" for formal presentations

In Italy, what unique feature is often found in primary school classrooms?

The Little Rock Nine became symbols of the civil rights movement when they faced violent opposition while integrating Central High School. Federal troops were sent by President Eisenhower to enforce their right to attend.

On September 4, 1957, nine African-American students famously integrated Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. What were they collectively called?

 In Russia, the first day of school, known as "Knowledge Day" (День Знаний), is celebrated on September 1. Students bring flowers for their teachers, and older students often lead first-graders into the school in a symbolic ceremony. The day begins with a "First Bell" ringing ceremony.

День Учителя (Teacher’s Day)

Праздник Школы (School Festival)

What is the name of the celebration marking the first day of school in Russia, often featuring a "First Bell" ceremony?

In many parts of India, students are welcomed with prayers, traditional blessings, and special ceremonies to seek success in their studies. Schools may also distribute sweets or organize cultural events. In Kerala, the day coincides with the monsoon season and is called Praveshanotsavam ("admission festival").

In India, what is the name of the festival in Kerala that celebrates the first day of school?

 In 1970, Finland restructured its education system to provide free, high-quality schooling for all children, laying the foundation for its future as one of the world’s most respected education systems.

The introduction of free and universal basic education

The start of Finland's first vocational school system

The abolishment of entrance exams for high schools

The requirement for all teachers to hold doctoral degrees

What historic milestone in Finland’s education system began with the first day of school in August 1970?

In the U.S., the first day of school often includes classroom icebreakers, teacher introductions, and getting to know the year’s schedule. Many families also take photos of their children with backpacks and "first day of school" signs.

Students bring flowers for their teachers.

Students are given a "First Bell" ceremony.

Children receive a colorful cone of sweets.

Families take photos with "first day of school" signs.

 What is a common tradition in the United States for the first day of school?

The Scottish believe that rain on the first day of school is a good omen, as it symbolizes growth and nourishment.

Students carry a lucky charm given by their grandparents.

Rain on the first day is believed to bring academic success.

Writing your name three times on a chalkboard ensures good grades.

A black cat crossing your path on the way to school brings good luck.

In Scotland, what is a fascinating superstition tied to the first day of school?

On Knowledge Day, students traditionally present flowers to their teachers as a way to honor and thank them for their role in education.

To ward off bad luck for the school year.

As a sign of gratitude and respect for their future guidance.

 Because it’s part of an ancient pagan ritual.

In Russia, why do students give flowers to teachers on the first day of school?

In South Korea, neat handwriting is viewed as a reflection of a person’s character and an essential part of early education.

It is believed to shape a child’s personality and discipline.

Handwriting determines their placement in future classes.

It’s a symbolic gesture to honor ancient calligraphy traditions.

In South Korea, why do schools emphasize handwriting practice on the first day of school?

In rural Kenya, many schools face resource shortages, leading to shared desks and improvised seating, though students and teachers remain highly motivated despite challenges.

Desks and chairs are often handmade and shared among multiple students.

Classrooms are arranged in a circle to promote discussion.

Students are required to bring their own desks to school.

Students use tablets provided by the government.

In Kenya, what is a typical feature of classrooms in many rural schools?

On September 1, 1939, as students in Europe prepared for school, Germany’s invasion of Poland marked the beginning of World War II, drastically altering lives and education systems worldwide.

A global teachers’ strike protesting wages

 The German invasion of Poland, starting World War II

The formation of the United Nations Education Initiative

The introduction of mandatory literacy programs in Europe

What event occurred on the first day of school in September 1939 that shocked the world?

Finnish schools prioritize a nurturing and welcoming environment, with older students playing a key role in making first graders feel at home.

They get to plant a tree that symbolizes their educational journey.

Older students sing a welcome song and guide them to their classrooms.

Each child is given a small golden key to "unlock knowledge."

 First graders are the only students served dessert at lunch.

In Finland, what special privilege is given to first graders on their first day of school?

In South Africa, education reflects the country’s cultural and linguistic diversity, with materials often available in various local languages to cater to students’ needs.

Cultural decorations from all 11 official languages

Separate seating areas for each grade level within a single room

Smartboards and advanced tech in every classroom

In South Africa, classrooms in urban schools often include which feature that reflects the country’s diversity?

Welcome back HSO! As you dive back to school at GSU, kick things off with some Trivia! Test your knowledge back-to-school traditions in other schools around the world. Compete against other honors students and get the highest score!