How to Handle “Back to School” Anxiety!
In this article we will look at six ways to make heading “back to school” for teachers not such a bad idea after all.
What are some”back to school” tips for teachers for the coming school year?
A checklist resource I have available on my TpT store shows teachers activities that help get students back into the school routine and reduce anxiety at the same time.
Check out this cool back to school activity you can have your students complete as a way to welcome all new and returning students into a new school year!
Click to view more digital products around back to school in education.
If the classroom may not seem where you want to be, but teaching is still your passion, consider joining the Teach:able community.
Teach With Teach:able
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Teach:able offers a dynamic community where aspiring educators can connect with experienced mentors, collaborate with fellow pre-service teachers, and access a wealth of curated teaching resources.
This platform serves as a bridge between theory and practice, providing a space for pre-service teachers to engage in insightful discussions, gain practical insights, and stay updated on the latest trends in education.
Joining Teach:able is a proactive step for pre-service teachers to enhance their teaching skills, foster a sense of community, and embark on a journey of continuous growth and learning within the field of education.
You can see how I created my school with Teach:able here.
Now, on to the teacher anxiety that comes with going back to school.
Back to School Resources
As summer vacation draws to a close, the excitement of a new school year begins to fill the air. For teachers, this period means a fresh start, an opportunity to inspire young minds, and create an engaging learning environment.
The back-to-school season is a time for teachers to reflect on their teaching practices, prepare for the year ahead, and set the stage for a successful academic journey.
Check out this template I made in Canva you can download and use for your first day back to school!
Check out our wide selection of classroom resources available on Canva!
Before the school year begins, take some time to reflect on your teaching journey. Consider your achievements and areas where you would like to improve.
1. Reflect and Set Goals
If this is your first year teaching, consider reflecting on the teachers who made a positive impact on your lerning when you were a student. Watch the video below to see what five things you need to know heading into your first classroom as a teacher.
Reflecting allows you to set specific goals for professional growth. These goals may include enhancing instructional strategies, incorporating technology, or improving classroom management techniques.
Setting clear objectives will provide you with direction and motivation throughout the year.
2. Prepare and Organize
Preparation is key to a smooth start. Organize your physical classroom, ensuring that it is inviting, well-equipped, and conducive to learning.
Review and update your curriculum materials, lesson plans, and resources.
Organize your schedule, allowing time for lesson planning, collaboration with other teachers, and self-care.
Review and update your curriculum materials, lesson plans, and resources.
Make sure you have the essential materials you need to keep your classroom managment style easy to mange! Check out some of these teacher essentials available on Amazon today!
Visit our blog on getting your classroom ready to see valuable supplies teachers need in the classroom.
One valuable resource teachers have come to know more about is called Take Control of the Noisy Classroom by Rob Falvin. Rob’s book has been a popular favorite among teachers new and old for many years now because of the practical nature of how he recommeds teacher take control of their noisy classrooms.
Click on the link above or on the image below and get your copy today!
3. Attend Professional Development Opportunities
Before you start your eye roll, hear me out.
Professional development plays a vital role in staying current with educational trends and improving teaching practices.
Seek out professional development opportunities that align with your interests and goals.
Attend workshops, conferences, or webinars that focus on pedagogy, subject-specific strategies, or social-emotional learning.
Engaging in continuous professional growth enhances your teaching skills and brings fresh ideas to the classroom.
4. Collaborate and Network
Collaboration with fellow teachers is invaluable for professional growth and sharing best practices. Take advantage of the collective knowledge and experiences of your more seasoned teachers.
Participate in collaborative planning sessions, team meetings, and professional learning communities.
Engage in discussions, share resources, and brainstorm ideas to create an enriching learning environment for your students.
Building a strong professional network also provides a support system for sharing challenges and celebrating successes.
5. Create a Positive Classroom Culture
Establishing a positive classroom culture sets the tone for the entire school year. Develop clear expectations and rules that promote respect, inclusivity, and collaboration.
Create a safe and welcoming environment where students feel comfortable expressing themselves and taking risks. Incorporate activities that build community and foster a sense of belonging among your students.
Encourage open communication and provide opportunities for student voice and choice.
6. Prioritize Self-Care
Teaching can be demanding, both physically and emotionally. Prioritize self-care to ensure you are at your best for your students.
Set boundaries between work and personal life, allowing time for relaxation, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones.
Engage in activities that rejuvenate and inspire you, such as exercise, meditation, or pursuing creative outlets.
Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it enables you to be an effective and compassionate teacher.
The ETI Academy Teacher Videos on YouTube
The ETI Academy has a series of videos dedicated to supporting teachers when it comes to lesson planning, classroom management, and much more!
Improving teacher morale in a school is vital for fostering a positive and effective learning environment. Recognizing and appreciating the hard work and dedication of teachers is essential. Regular acknowledgment of achievements, both big and small, can significantly boost morale.
Open communication channels that encourage feedback and collaboration between teachers and administrators contribute to a sense of shared responsibility and trust.
Building Teacher Morale in Education
Additionally, promoting teacher well-being through wellness programs and fostering a positive school culture can create an atmosphere where teachers feel supported and motivated.
Watch our video below to see more on how we view teacher morale in today’s classroom.
By prioritizing teacher morale, schools can cultivate a vibrant and thriving educational community that benefits both educators and students alike.
Visit our YouTube channel to watch our full playlist of videos dedicating to supporting teachers in education.
Final Thoughts
As teachers prepare to welcome students back to school, it’s essential to approach the new academic year with enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
Reflect on your teaching journey, set goals, and organize your classroom and resources. Embrace professional development opportunities and collaborate with colleagues to enhance your teaching practices.
Create a positive classroom culture that fosters learning and builds strong relationships. Above all, prioritize self-care to maintain your well-being and sustain your passion for teaching.
By empowering yourself, you empower your students, creating a vibrant and impactful learning environment that sets them up for success.
Related Topics
Connect to our other pages as you navigate through our website. Explore what these pages have to offer you and you will be glad you did!
- Learn more about ChatGPT and how it may change the future of classrooms
- Read more about strategies for improving behavior
- Click here to see what different approaches may benefit classroom management strategies.
- Click here for resources in building effective communication strategies with students.
- Visit our student blogs to see what strategies work best for learning
- Read more about why Teachable is good for teachers
- Back to school resources teachers will love
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