You just landed your first teaching job, congratulations! Mixed in with the excitement, lies nerves and apprehension. As overwhelmed as you may feel, these 10 tips will help make your first year of teaching a little easier.
Your colleagues can be an invaluable resource as you’re getting acclimated. They can give you advice and provide resources to help you set the stage that you can continue to build on. Not only will they help you start the year off on a good foot, they will continue to be your support system as the year progresses..
Veteran teachers are your best resource. Whether you need assistance with fixing the jammed printer or could use tips for classroom management, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you are in need of a resource ask a colleague or explore Pinterest and tweak it to fit your style and students' needs.
Each day, take a few minutes to write the daily agenda or schedule on the board. Having a routine can help tremendously with classroom management. It also helps you to stay on task.
No matter how many years you’ve been teaching, you can never be quite sure how long an activity or lesson will take. Depending on schedule changes or the needs of your students, you may find that an activity varies in length from year to year. With that being said, it’s important to have some activities planned for leftover time and materials for any early finishers. Be sure that these are meaningful and apply to the learning that your students are doing. Lots of teachers - both elementary and secondary - plan both in their classrooms and in their Learning Management systems for such times. When you have a "bank" of enrichment activities set up - it means you don't have to think "on the fly" when you have a student say "I'm done" with their peers needing more time.
This might only be your first year of teaching, but you know a lot more than you think you do! Give yourself credit for the countless hours you’ve spent studying and preparing over the last few years. Don’t be afraid to share your thoughts and ideas with colleagues, as you bring fresh and valuable ideas as well.
Learn to maintain a healthy work/life balance. At least once a week take time to do something for yourself - whether that’s going for a hike, reading a book, or watching your favorite show on Netflix. It can be easy to get wrapped up in grading or lesson planning. Take the mental break you need to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind. You'll be happier and a better teacher when you are taking care of yourself.
Now more than ever, technology plays a vital role in the classroom. While we don’t want kids in front of screens all day, finding ways to embed technology into instruction can be a helpful tool. Take advantage of any professional learning opportunities that your school and/or local service center offers related to instructional technology tools.
Take interest in your students both inside and outside of the classroom. Utilize an "all about me" interest inventory at the beginning of the year so you can learn about what students are interested in. At the elementary level, consider having them complete this with a parent or guardian. Your students will appreciate you congratulating them on their game-winning home run or their participation in the school play. Show that you care and you will gain their trust and respect.
There is so much to learn your first few years of teaching and good professional learning can make all the difference. Asynchronous/online courses can offer you personalized professional development opportunities that can help you grow as an educator. Be sure to ask what is available to you at your school/district - it is probably more than you realize. Another great learning opportunity is to see if you can visit other teachers during the day. Sometimes giving away your prep time/period to see other experienced educators in action can truly help you gain new knowledge, perspective, and strategies.
Remember, you are only human. You are going to be challenged and you will even make a few mistakes - that is okay. Focus on the good. Smile and laugh with your students. As the year goes on, you will find your groove and things will get easier. The more you are enjoying yourself - the more your students will enjoy your class!
“Children want the same things we want. To laugh, to be challenged, to be entertained, and delighted.” – Dr. Seuss
Updated August 16, 2023, by Brittany Haines and Courtney Udanis.