As the summer break winds down, it’s time for teachers to gear up for another school year. Preparing early can set the tone for a successful and smooth year ahead. The experienced consultants at Tools for Success, all former K-12 teachers and administrators, have shared their top tips to help you get organized, create a positive classroom environment, and engage your students right from the start. Here’s how you can set yourself up for success:
- Declutter and Organize Regularly
Jesse Purvis emphasizes the importance of maintaining a tidy and organized classroom:
Weekly Tidying: Set aside time each week to declutter and ensure materials are in their proper places. A clean, organized space helps both teachers and students focus better.
Anchor Charts: Take pictures of common spaces and use them as visual reminders of how the space should look. Post them where students can see them. This helps students take ownership of keeping the classroom tidy.
Glow and Grow Sessions: At the end of each day, celebrate successes and plan actions for the next day. This reflection helps maintain organization and build a positive class culture.
- Establish Effective Classroom Management
Cathy Tooley highlights the critical role of classroom management in creating a conducive learning environment:
Set Procedures Early: Establish and teach classroom procedures from the start. Consistently following through with these procedures sets clear expectations.
Create a Positive Environment: Think about the environment you want to create. Clearly communicate your expectations, non-negotiables, and consequences to students and parents. This clarity helps in maintaining a respectful and productive classroom.
Consistent Communication: Decide on your communication method with families, whether it’s a newsletter, weekly email, or another format. Overcommunication is better than under-communication; make parents feel welcome and informed about classroom expectations.
- Build Strong Relationships
Cathy also stresses the importance of getting to know your students and their families:
Get to Know Your Students: Engage in activities that help you learn about your students and their backgrounds. Knowing your students’ names and interests helps build trust and a sense of community.
Include Families: Make an effort to understand your students’ family dynamics. This knowledge can be invaluable in supporting your students effectively throughout the year.
- Prepare and Plan Thoroughly
Preparation is key, as Cathy notes:
Study Your Standards: Familiarize yourself with the standards and expectations for your grade or subject. Well-prepared teachers can provide more effective and engaging lessons.
Plan Your Year: Map out your school year over the summer. Ensure that all standards are taught, assessed, and measured. This foresight ensures that all students have the opportunity to succeed.
- Support Novice Learners
Marty Moore reminds us that students may not always have the background knowledge we assume they do:
- Teach Vocabulary: Introduce and explicitly teach important vocabulary before starting new lessons.
- Break Down Material: Divide complex material into manageable chunks and practice each step sequentially.
- Use Models and Examples: Provide annotated models and work exemplars to clarify expectations before introducing rubrics.
- Clear Directions: Give clear, oral and written directions for all tasks. Wait until you have the class’s attention before explaining, and use precise language.
- Chunk Assignments: Divide complex assignments into parts, providing clear steps for each phase. This approach helps students manage their work more effectively.
Starting the school year well-prepared and organized can significantly impact both teacher and student success. By following these tips from the experienced team at Tools for Success, you can create a positive, engaging, and efficient classroom environment from day one. Remember, preparation and clear communication are key to a successful school year. You’ve got this!
