What this seating chart template is for
A seating chart is one of the simplest classroom management tools you have. It lets you learn names fast, separate pairs who distract each other, put students who need support where you can reach them, and hand a substitute a map of the room.
The Word and PDF versions show 30 desks in five rows of six facing the front, with space for a name and a note on each desk. The PowerPoint version has two editable layouts, rows and groups of six, where every desk is a shape you can drag to match your room and click to type a name.
What's on the template
- Class, room, teacher and date / semester fields
- Front of room bar so the orientation is never in doubt
- 30 numbered desks in five rows of six, each with room for a name and a note
- Key: I = IEP / 504, E = ELL, G = gifted / extension, M = medical, helper and your own code
- PowerPoint: a rows layout and a groups-of-six layout with draggable, typeable desks
How to use it
- Choose a layout that matches the room. Use the PowerPoint version if your desks are in groups or an unusual shape.
- Place students who need support (IEP, 504, ELL, vision or hearing) first, close to where you teach from.
- Add the pairs you want to keep apart and the helpers you want spread around the room.
- Fill in everyone else, alternating confident and less confident students if you want mixed pairs.
- Use the key codes on each desk, keep a copy on your desk and one in the sub binder.
Example of a filled-in section
Example: front row of a 6th grade seating chart.
Short codes keep the chart readable while still telling another adult what matters.
Tips from the classroom
- Change the plan at the start of each quarter so it stays fresh and fixes problems early.
- Do not rely only on the chart for sensitive information; keep detailed notes elsewhere and use neutral codes on the printed version.
- Project the PowerPoint version on the first day so students find their seats without a queue at the door.
- Write names in pencil on the PDF, or type them into the Word version so you can reprint after changes.
Download it free
Editable Word, PowerPoint and PDF, US Letter, ready to print. No account needed.
Plan the lesson for this class
Enter your topic and grade and LessonHQ writes it for you in about a minute, aligned to your standards. Edit it, then export to Word, Google Docs or PDF.
Plan the lesson for this class βFrequently asked questions
How do I make a classroom seating chart?
Start with the room layout, place students who need support first, separate pairs who distract each other, spread helpers around, then fill in the rest. Review it every few weeks.
Can I move the desks around?
Yes. In the PowerPoint version every desk is a separate shape you can drag, copy or delete, with a rows layout and a groups-of-six layout.
How many desks does it have?
Thirty, in five rows of six, which suits most classes. Delete desks in the Word or PowerPoint version for smaller groups or copy them for larger ones.
Is it free to download?
Yes. The Word, PowerPoint and PDF versions are free with no sign-up.