7 Important Things New Teachers Need to Do

This year I am heading into my 8th year in the classroom. I’ve gained valuable insights from trying different approaches—some successful, others not so much. For those of you beginning your teaching journey, I have essential advice and tips to offer.

While there are numerous teaching and classroom management techniques, my focus here is on preparing you to be rock-solid ready for day one. My aim is to share the knowledge that will help you start off like a seasoned professional. 

Let me share with you the seven critical things that will set you up to begin your year like a seasoned pro.

1. Familiarize yourself with the content

As a teacher, one of the most crucial aspects is ensuring you have a solid grasp of the content you’ll be teaching. 

If you already know which course or grade level you’ll be instructing this year, consider reaching out to your principal to request the scope and sequence for the course. 

Many districts have a designated curriculum that you can follow. If that information isn’t readily available or if it does exist, a simple Google search can yield curriculum scope and sequence documents from other districts.

Once you have this valuable information, take the time to prepare yourself, at least for the first month of lessons. The smallest amount of work is better than no preparation at all. This could mean simply looking over what is taught over the first month, the topic of lessons, etc.  

Investing in this preparation will pay off, and your future self will undoubtedly appreciate the effort you put in. Being well-prepared in terms of content will enable you to provide a more effective and enriching learning experience for your students.

2. Develop or adopt a pacing calendar

You will want to have a calendar where you make a plan for the number of days you will spend on a topic you are teaching. Having a well-organized calendar is essential for planning the duration of your teaching topics. 

Sometimes, the recommended number of days will be provided in the scope and sequence, while other times it may not be readily available. In such cases, take a moment to research each topic to understand what a typical lesson on that subject would entail. 

Use this information to allocate the appropriate number of days to each topic on your calendar.

As you gain experience, you can refine and become more specific with your planning, but don’t feel overwhelmed when you start. Just having a rough idea of how much time you can dedicate to each topic will provide you with initial guidelines to move forward. 

Remember, your calendar is a dynamic document, and nothing is set in stone. As you progress in your career, you’ll develop a calendar that suits all your needs. In fact, I now share my calendar with my students, so they know exactly what we’ll be covering and when, which helps create a smooth learning experience for everyone involved.

3. Establish your classroom management plan

It’s crucial to approach your new teaching career with a positive mindset. While you’ve undoubtedly made the right choice, it’s also essential to be prepared for potential challenges that may arise. 

Today, let’s focus on developing a proactive approach. 

One of the first steps is creating or adopting a robust set of procedures. Remember, a strong defense is the best offense. For more detailed information on procedures, refer to my Tip number 4.

Before day one, it’s imperative to have a well-defined list of classroom rules, which are distinct from procedures. Rules outline the expected student behavior and serve as a means of communication regarding what is not allowed in the classroom. 

Additionally, attaching consequences for breaking these rules reinforces their importance. For instance, in my classroom, using cell phones is prohibited. The consequences for violating this rule start with a warning, followed by a one-on-one discussion, then parent contact, and finally, an official write-up to the principal’s office.

Here are some other rules I follow: 

1. Punctuality: Arrive to class on time.
2. Respect: Show respect to yourself and others.
3. Cleanliness: Clean up your table before leaving for the day.
4. Cell Phones: Cell phones are not allowed at any time.
5. Seating: Stay seated during class.
6. Listening: No talking while the teacher is speaking.

By having a solid plan in place, you’ll be better equipped to handle any potential challenges and create a positive learning environment for your students.

4. Prepare procedures in advance

As mentioned earlier, having well-established procedures in place will serve as your first line of defense against major behavior issues in your class. Take a moment to open a document or grab a pen and paper to begin drafting your list. Consider how you want students to enter the room and what specific actions they should take upon arrival. 

For example, in my class, students immediately pick up their interactive notebooks upon entering and begin their warm-up activity or questions at their seats. They also log into the online classroom to check feedback from previous days while waiting for the next activity.

Another important procedure to consider is how students should request permission to use the restroom. In my class, students are not allowed to leave during the first and last 15 minutes to minimize disruptions. 

To assist you in formulating your procedures, I’ve provided a list below. Keep in mind that my list was tailored for a high school classroom, so you may have more or fewer routines depending on your teaching setting. 

A helpful approach is to visualize your day and identify possible interruptions that can be mitigated through well-defined procedures. Additionally, consider seeking advice from colleagues on your campus, as they have valuable insights into the needs of the students you’ll be teaching.

1. Entry Routine: Outline how students should enter the classroom, gather materials, and prepare for the lesson.
2. Do Now Routine: Clearly define the start-of-class activity or questions that students should begin as soon as they enter.
3. Seeking Help: Explain how students can ask for assistance or clarification when they encounter difficulties.
4. Question Protocol: Establish whether students should raise their hands or use other methods to ask questions during the lesson.
5. Attention Signal: Decide on a signal or procedure to regain students’ focus and quiet the class when necessary.
6. Early Finishers: Provide instructions for students who complete their tasks early, such as engaging in enrichment activities or silent reading.
7. Supply Access: Arrange a supply station or designate a supply manager to assist table mates with accessing necessary materials.
8. Fire Drill Protocol: Clearly specify the designated exit and meeting location for students during a fire drill.
9. Interruptions: Outline the appropriate response when someone knocks on the classroom door during instructional time.
10. Worksheet Submission: Indicate where students should turn in completed worksheets or assignments.
11. Worksheet Return: Explain how and when students can expect to receive graded worksheets or assignments.
12. Checking Work: Describe the process for reviewing and correcting assignments before turning them in.
13. Dismissal: Clarify whether students should leave when the bell rings or wait for your dismissal signal at the end of the class.

By having well-defined procedures for these aspects of classroom management, you’ll create a structured and productive learning environment for your students.

5. Create a well-organized and functional classroom space

As a teacher, one of the aspects I cherish the most is having creative control over my classroom design. I thoroughly enjoy decorating, and I know many fellow educators share the same passion. 

It’s inspiring to see teachers proudly showcasing their classroom designs. And while it certainly is fun to make things pretty, you want to think about functionality too!

If possible, try to get into your classroom early, even before professional development starts for the new year. Familiarize yourself with the space and envision how you can set it up to align with the procedures you’ve established. 

Utilize this time to plan a layout that facilitates the smooth execution of your classroom routines. For instance, in my class, I arrange to have a front table by the door to hold students’ notebooks, handouts, and necessary supplies to streamline the entry process.

Don’t forget to prominently display your classroom rules, ensuring they are visible at all times. This way, students cannot claim they did not know if it’s posted in plain view. 

Additionally, consider having a data board to emphasize the value you place on their progress and the high expectations you hold for their academic growth.

To further motivate and inspire your students through your classroom design, adorn the walls with motivational posters that suit your grade level and style. Websites like Amazon offer a wide selection of options to choose from.

Another essential aspect of your design should be allocating space on the walls for student work. Students take pride in seeing their work displayed, so plan to rotate and showcase their creations regularly. Plan for this. 

I personally change my display boards at least once a month, but you can adjust the frequency based on your preference, no pressure! 

With a well-designed and functional classroom, you’ll create an environment that fosters learning, engagement, and creativity for both you and your students.

6. Seek Guidance When You Encounter Roadblocks

This can be a tough one, but you have to learn it. Ask for help. 

Life is full of challenges, and it’s natural to face situations where you feel stuck and unsure of how to proceed. However, the journey of learning and growth requires us to push past these obstacles. 

One of the most effective ways to do so is by reaching out for help. Yes, it might be a daunting step, but trust me, it’s a crucial one.

You possess the capacity to figure things out independently; otherwise, you wouldn’t have discovered this post. However, we all encounter complex problems that could benefit from an extra set of eyes or a fresh perspective. 

Seeking assistance does not diminish your capabilities; rather, it showcases your wisdom and openness to learn from others.

Admittedly, asking for help can evoke feelings of vulnerability and insecurity, but it’s essential to challenge those emotions. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; there are countless individuals, like you, who desire to support and guide others. 

Teachers, for instance, find immense joy in helping students succeed and feel valued when they can offer assistance.

The key is to find the right match, someone who resonates with your learning style and understands your needs. Don’t hesitate to take that leap and approach those around you for help. 

There’s a vast array of ways to ask for assistance subtly; you don’t necessarily have to make a direct plea. You can initiate the conversation by saying something like, “I’m curious, how would you approach this situation?” or “What do you think would be the best way to handle this challenge?”

Remember, asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a testament to your strength in acknowledging that continuous learning and growth require collaboration and collective wisdom. 

So, embrace the power of seeking support and guidance, and you’ll discover a newfound sense of confidence and resilience as you tackle life’s hurdles together!”

7. Relax, school starts on Monday!

Congratulations on all the hard work you’ve put in to prepare for your first day of school! Now, it’s time to take a well-deserved step back and embrace some much-needed relaxation. 

Burning yourself out before you even begin won’t do you any favors, especially considering the responsibilities that come with being a teacher. From the very start, it’s crucial to learn the art of relaxation. 

The truth is, there will never be enough time to accomplish everything, and that’s okay. Sometimes, you’ll have to accept that an okay lesson plan is sufficient, rather than staying up all night striving for perfection.

Remember, it’s essential to pace yourself and grant yourself some grace. If you’ve read through this entire blog post, it speaks volumes about your dedication and passion for your new profession. 

Your thirst for knowledge and desire to be fully prepared demonstrate an excellent mindset for the journey ahead. Your commitment to seek advice from experienced educators shows that you’re the kind of person who will undoubtedly achieve their objectives.

As the keystone of the classroom, you play a pivotal role in holding everything together. 

The success of a lesson often rests on your shoulders, but even in moments of overwhelming pressure, take solace in the fact that you have the power to pause, gather yourself, and relax. 

Prioritize self-care and well-being throughout your teaching career, and you’ll find the strength and resilience needed to overcome any challenges that come your way.

With the first day of school looming, make sure to allocate ample time for relaxation in your schedule. A composed and rejuvenated teacher makes for a more effective and compassionate educator. 

As you embark on this exciting journey, always keep in mind that learning to relax and take care of yourself will enable you to be the best teacher you can be, positively impacting the lives of your students and fostering a dynamic and enriching learning environment for all.

Before you go, I want to say…

Congratulations on embarking on this exciting new chapter as a teacher! This journey is sure to be filled with rewarding moments and personal growth, and I wish you an abundance of joy along the way. 

As you navigate through your first year, remember to maintain a positive outlook, for it will serve as a guiding light during moments of challenges and triumphs.

It’s natural to encounter unfamiliar concepts and terms in the teaching world, and if you find yourself unsure about certain aspects, don’t worry; it’s all part of the learning process. 

Your first year will undoubtedly present a significant learning curve, but it’s essential to be kind to yourself and acknowledge that growth takes time.

By gaining insight from experienced teachers who have been in the game, you already have a valuable advantage. Embrace the wisdom they offer, but also remember that teaching is not a one-size-fits-all role. 

Each educator brings their unique perspective, style, and approach to the classroom. Feel empowered to implement new strategies and techniques at a pace that feels comfortable to you.

I am truly rooting for your success and believe in your abilities to make a positive impact on your students’ lives. As you navigate this fulfilling profession, know that you are not alone; a supportive community of educators stands beside you. 

Reach out for assistance, share your experiences, and celebrate your achievements with your peers. Together, you’ll find strength, inspiration, and camaraderie.

Embrace this incredible journey with an open heart and a growth mindset, and you’ll discover the immense rewards that come from shaping young minds and nurturing a love for learning. 

Cherish every moment, celebrate your progress, and remember that you have the power to make a significant difference in the lives of your students. Cheers to you and your bright future as an extraordinary teacher!

Much Love, Your Friend, Linda.