Those lazy days of summer are finally here and while spending some extra time with friends and family is a must, this is also an ideal time to gear up for next year. I know we all put in many hours during the school year, but putting in a few summer hours will pay off exponentially in the coming school year.
Organization is a big piece of the equation. Consider putting together your back-to-school packets as early as possible. Include your supply lists, information about your behavior management system, as well as all of your school’s required forms. Have five or six extra packets ready so you don’t have to hunt down forms later. This will save time throughout the school year as new students join your classroom.
Have your class list already? Start setting up your library check-out system, making your students’ name tags, and putting together homework folders now. If new students join your class later, you’ll only have to make a few more of these supplies as you begin the school year.
Professional Learning Communities are vitally important as you plan your instruction to meet Common Core standards. If you don’t already know your grade level teammates, find a time this summer to grab lunch to discuss your goals for the school year, your teaching style, and how you can work together for the benefit of your students.
We know that great teaching ideas pop up throughout the school year when you least expect it. I keep an “ideas” folder handy and add to it throughout the school year. I take a few hours each summer to review the folder and decide which new ideas I will implement in the coming school year. If you have a similar system, review your ideas and research what you need to put the new ideas into your regular teaching repertoire.
Summers are for rejuvenation, and as teachers we definitely need that time to recharge. But with a little extra planning during the summer, you will have a little less to stress about during the nonstop meetings during back-to-school season. What are some things you do to make sure you’re ready for the school year? Please share!
