Good list of items that need to be added to the system before you give it to the new user.

I would like to expand on one section. Updating the system. You need to show them where the update button is and what to do when it is telling you that there is updates, such as the red button in the top right task bar for Ubuntu and the shield in Mint. showing them how it is done is a plus.
However there is still times when the command line is needed.

let me suggest 6 and you can expand from there.

sudo apt-get clean
sudo apt-get autoclean
sudo apt-get autoremove

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get upgrade
sudo aptitude full-upgrade

Show these commands to the new user and hopefully one or two will install something.
You can explain what each does and then tell them they do not need to remember the commands. all you need to do is start terminal and use the up key on the keyboard. When you see the command just hit enter on the keyboard.

I would also like to recommend showing the new user the Synaptic Package Manager. Knowing how to add and remove software packages is a big plus. When they see there is thousands of programs they can install there eyes light up.

Last but not least telling them about a local Linux group, (LUG), where they can continue there education.