Starting the School Year Right—3 Back-to-School Tips
The start of a new school year means starting fresh, with a plethora of opportunities for growth, and probably a hectic first couple of days. We researched and read multitudes of back to school tips and tricks that are accessible online to teachers. Among them, three simple key words stood out. These three words may be the key to a successful school year, and it all begins long before the first bell rings: set, plan, and evaluate.
Set
o Set goals for yourself as a teacher, for your students, and for the year.
o Set rules for your classroom and procedures, for handing in assignments, grading, and testing.
o Set aside time before school starts to organize your workspace, in the classroom and at home.
o Set firm expectations at the beginning of the year for your students, establishing a positive academic and behavioral atmosphere. By doing all of this, students will know what to expect throughout the year and will be more likely to adhere.
Plan
o Plan to meet the goals you set.
o Plan for the first day and week, and how you will memorize each student’s name.
o Plan for lessons and for exam preparation. Think ahead about finals and state-administered tests, and plan to prepare your students for them. Know your final expectations for the year, for you and your students.
Evaluate
o Remember that in order to grow, we must always reflect on what we are doing, on what is working and what isn’t. It can be easy to get carried away in the excitement of the new school year, but take a minute to breathe, relax, and remember that there is always room for improvement. Remember that it’s okay to have questions and to look to colleagues for a support system.
As we near the beginning of the school year, remember that it is the end that counts. Where do you want your students to be, come next May? In 7 Habits for Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey states, “To begin with the end in mind means to start with a clear understanding of your destination. It means to know where you’re going so that you better understand where you are now. This can help ensure that the steps you take are always in the right direction.” By following these steps, you are on your way to a successful school year and to the results you desire.
For other helpful tips, visit these sites:
Back to School: 6 Things to Do at the Start of the Year
The Essential Back to School Checklist for Teachers
Back to School for Teachers
50 Back-to-School Tips for Teachers
