As summer winds down and the smell of fresh crayons and sharpened pencils starts to fill the air, teachers everywhere are gearing up for a brand new school year. Whether you’re a veteran educator or setting up your very first classroom, preparing your space and mindset is key to setting a positive tone for your students. Here’s a checklist-style guide to help you start the year strong and organized:
1. Refresh Your Classroom Layout
Start by envisioning the flow of your room. Think about traffic patterns, collaborative areas, and cozy reading corners. Rearranging furniture can breathe new life into your space. Ensure every child can see the board and feels included in the layout.
2. Declutter and Organize
Purge what you don’t need. Old worksheets, broken crayons, dried-up glue—let them go. Organize supplies into labeled bins and use drawer systems or caddies for easy access. A clutter-free classroom creates a calmer, more focused environment.
3. Plan Your First Week Activities
The first week sets the tone for the entire year. Plan icebreakers, community-building games, classroom tours, and routines practice. Choose activities that are fun but purposeful—helping students feel comfortable while you assess their needs.
4. Prep Your Bulletin Boards
Start the year with warm, welcoming displays. Consider a student-centered board like “All About Us” that gets filled over the first week. Leave space for student work—it gives them ownership and pride in the classroom environment.
5. Stock Up on Supplies
Double-check your inventory: pencils, erasers, markers, folders, tissues, hand sanitizer. Don’t forget your own teacher supplies—think sticky notes, a good pen stash, and an emergency chocolate drawer.
6. Create a Daily Schedule
Draft a realistic daily and weekly schedule, keeping in mind transitions and breaks. Display it where students can see it—consistency builds security and helps manage expectations.
7. Establish Routines and Expectations
Clear procedures for lining up, turning in homework, asking for help, and more will save you hours of class time later. Practice them early and often. Make it fun with role-play or group discussions.
8. Update Parent Communication Tools
Whether it’s a weekly newsletter, a class website, or apps like ClassDojo or Remind, make sure your communication plan is ready. Prepare welcome letters and important info packets to send home the first day.
9. Prep Your Sub Binder
It may feel early, but having an emergency sub folder with your class list, routines, seating chart, and a few easy activities can be a lifesaver in the first month if you’re unexpectedly out.
10. Take Care of YOU
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Build in time for yourself before the chaos begins. Whether it’s reading, hiking, or binge-watching a show—recharging now helps you be your best for your students.
Final Thoughts:
The start of a new school year is a fresh opportunity to create magic in your classroom. Don’t stress about perfection—aim for prepared and flexible. Your students will thrive because of your care, creativity, and commitment.
Here’s to a joyful and successful year ahead!