Let's Tech

The Fully Charged Classroom: Teachers' 5-Minute Back-to-School Cheat Sheet

Written by The Cart Guru | September 03, 2025

Updated August 29, 2025

The back-to-school season can be stressful, with tasks such as lesson planning, classroom decorating, and endless to-do lists. The last thing you need is a mess of charging cables or uncharged devices getting in the way of teaching. We’ve put together this quick guide so you can focus on what really matters: your students. 

Uncharged or malfunctioning devices can cost a classroom up to 20 days of instruction over the course of a school year. A few minutes of prep now can give you that time back and keep your lessons running smoothly. 

Your First-Week Success Checklist 

Tackle these simple steps before the first bell rings and save yourself hours of troubleshooting later: 

 

1. Test Key Technology  


Log a test device into Wi-Fi and your learning management system. Double-check your smartboard or projector—sometimes all it takes is a quick wipe-down or calibration to avoid first-day hiccups. 
 

 

2. Set Up a “Charging Zone” 


Designate one specific table or counter for device charging. It keeps cords contained, reduces trip hazards, and gives students a clear place to return their devices. 
 
 
 
 

3. Label Everything  


Stick a numbered label on each device and its corresponding charging slot. Organization instantly improves, and students are more likely to take ownership when things are marked. 
 
 

 

4. Start the 5-Minute End-of-Day Reset 


Make it a daily class routine to return devices to the charging zone before dismissal.
 
Pro-tip: assign a “Class Tech Manager” to double-check that all devices are returned to the charging zone before dismissal. It’s a small responsibility that goes a long way in building student responsibility. 
 
 
 
Your "Plan B' for Uncharged Devices

Even with the best solutions, a student will eventually forget to charge their Chromebook, or a battery will die mid-lesson. Instead of losing momentum, keep an at-the-desk power bank on hand. Just one can give a Chromebook a ~30% boost—enough to power through the lesson without disruption. 



 
Ready to Set Clear Expectations?

Kick off the year strong by setting device routines early. To help, we’ve created a printable classroom poster with your daily tech routine. Hang it up in your charging zone and let it serve as a visual reminder for your students. 

Here’s to smoother lessons and a fully charged school year! 

 
View full post