12 Posters That Were on Every Classroom Wall
Here's a nostalgic trip through the iconic posters that decorated every classroom growing up.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Some classroom visuals were more than just decorations. They were part of the school experience. These posters stood the test of time. Let’s revisit the classic wall art that defined our school days.
1. “Hang in There” Cat Poster
Ann Althouse on Flickr
That kitten dangling from a branch was everywhere. It was supposed to be motivational, but mostly made you laugh or roll your eyes. Still, its message stuck: don’t give up — even if you’re clawing for dear life.
2. The Periodic Table of Elements
cottonbro studio on Pexels
No science room was complete without this rainbow grid. Half the class stared at it during tests, pretending to find answers. It was both overwhelming and oddly comforting.
3. “Reading Is Fun!” Poster
Enokson on Flickr
Usually featuring cartoon animals holding books, this poster was pure elementary-school energy. Bright colors, smiling faces, and forced enthusiasm made it impossible to ignore.
4. Famous Presidents or Historical Figures
Wikimedia Commons
Lined up like an academic Mount Rushmore, these faces watched you as you daydreamed. Lincoln, Washington, and sometimes MLK Jr. were staples. No one paid much attention — until a test rolled around.
5. Classroom Rules Chart
Judy Baxter on Flickr
This was a laminated list of dos and don’ts written in Comic Sans. “Raise your hand,” “Respect others,” and “Be kind” were always there. It was meant to keep order, but mostly faded into the wallpaper.
6. Multiplication Table
Drenisa on Wikimedia Commons
Every math classroom had one, and every kid glanced at it like it held magical answers. It didn’t, but it was comforting to see those rows of numbers.
7. Inspirational Quote Posters
semas87 on Flickr
Typically, it features a dramatic sunset or a mountain range behind a motivational phrase, such as “Believe in yourself.” Designed to stir your soul — but often just made you giggle.
8. The Alphabet Banner
unicorn-skydancer08 on DeviantArt
Stretched across the top of the chalkboard, A to Z in perfect handwriting font. It was your silent tutor in elementary school. When you couldn’t remember how to write a “Q,” it had your back.
9. “Today Is a Great Day to Learn” Poster
Mohammad Awais on Pexels
This poster tried way too hard to be positive. Usually plastered near the door or whiteboard, it greeted you with fake cheer. Most students groaned internally at its forced optimism.
10. Map of the World
RawPixel
Peeling corners, faded countries, and outdated borders — it was always hanging in the back. Still, it made geography feel real, even if you never memorized more than five nations.
11. “Be a Bucket Filler” Poster
CDC on Unsplash
A newer addition to the classics, this one taught kindness through metaphor. Fill someone’s bucket with good deeds — simple, sweet, and a little strange.
12. Fire Drill or Emergency Exit Plan
Nischal Pradhan on Pexels
Not exactly fun, but always present — usually laminated and ignored until a drill happened. It gave you a weird sense of adult responsibility just knowing where to go.