Not in School Yet? 5 Tips to Prepare for a GREAT year!

 

When it comes to back-to-school time, there are several “camps” of teachers ranging from the excited-and-can’t-wait-to-start ones to the dreading-going-back one. No matter what camp you fall into, the start of a new school year is filled with anticipation, new possibilities, and the opportunity for a fresh start.  The best way to make the transition into the new school year is to prepare in advance. 

To make the transition to back to school as smooth as possible, here are my top 4 tips:

1. Get Organized.  

I’m a big believer in the power of lists and the joy that comes with checking off completed items.  Some “school-related” things you might consider organizing prior to the start of school include the following:  Classroom supplies, classroom setup, curriculum and lesson plans (more on this in #2 & #3) & your classroom management plan.  You also want to think about organizing for your personal life: set up a calendar and/or planner, meal planning, and be sure to include your own well-being by organizing a self-care routine that includes exercise, relaxation, and time for personal interests.

 

2.  Have a Curriculum Plan.  

It’s best if you can have a general pacing guide for the year.  This does not need to be a super detailed document with every lesson planned out.  I suggest at minimum think about the major units you want to cover, when you’ll cover them (like the 9-week period or semester) and what will be included in each unit.  This does not need to be a finalized list by any means, but having a general overview of your year will give a roadmap for the year.

Tip 3: Plan your first week.  In detail!  

We all know that first week of school is CRAZY! Not to mention the exhaustion that comes with getting back in the groove of doing ALL THE THINGS!   If you need some resources for that first week, I’ve got you!

-Syllabus: I have 2 FREE templates that can help you prepare your syllabus.  Check out the FREE template in my store by CLICKING HERE.  

-I also have a FREE template in Canva for a syllabus website.  Get that FREE by CLICKING HERE.  

-First Week FREE Lesson Plan:  These were designed with my 7^th grade class in mind and are totally done for you with links to other resources to help lay the foundation for any middle school classroom.  Check them out HERE!  

-Classroom Rules and Procedures Memes Lesson: This resource is a done-for-you and completely editable resource that will help you consider ALL THE THINGS.   Check it out here. 

Tip 4: Set boundaries.  

This is easier said than done, I know all too well! We all know teacher burnout is REAL.  Be the best teacher for your students and still have time and energy for your family and interests by creating a healthy work-life balance.  How is this possible? My best tips –

-Establish work hours for both school AND home.  Stick to these hours as closely as possible to prevent overworking. Work AT work as much as possible.  During your prep time, put your head down and work.  Have a doable list of tasks to accomplish during each work session whether at school or at home.  I keep a running to-do list based on upcoming lessons, and when I have windows of time, I work on them – and the best part – check them off!

-Prioritize Self-Care:  Schedule regular self-care activities, such as exercise, relaxation, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones. Make these activities non-negotiable to maintain your physical and emotional well-being.

-Learn to Say No:  Recognize your limits and be willing to decline additional responsibilities or commitments when your plate is already full. It's okay to say no when you need to protect your time and energy.

Tip 5: Don't recreate the wheel.  

Planning a new unit and need new lessons? There are SO MANY free and low-cost resources for the taking with a simple search.  Why spend hours upon hours designing the lesson(s) if you can find what you need (maybe with a bit of tweaking) already done for a few dollars? I have several totally FREE resources in my store that you can apply to many resources.  Check these out:

Get these FREE resources:

               -CurrentEvent Worksheet

               -TEDTalk Organizer 

               -Book vs. Movie 

Preparing for the school year before it begins is an investment in your success.  With a bit of planning on the front end, you can ensure a smooth transition and hit the ground running. Remember, starting the school year with a well-prepared mindset and a clear plan sets the stage for a fulfilling and productive academic journey ahead. Embrace this opportunity, stay positive, and make the most of the exciting year that lies ahead!