Veteran teachers and newbies alike can all feel the stress that the first day of school brings. Unlike students, who only have to worry about showing up, teachers must plan out every aspect of that first day and each following day. Keep yourself in-check by creating a back-to-school checklist of important tasks to complete, and you’ll be completely prepared before that first bell rings.
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Create name tags for students.
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Design seating chart and determine desk arrangements for the classroom.
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Decorate bulletin boards, door, and classroom walls.
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Stock school & art supplies, like pencils, paper, crayons, etc. (For more information on the specific school supplies you should keep stocked, click here.)
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Purchase allergy-friendly snacks (stay away from the peanut butter and gluten).
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Set rules and consequences for breaking those rules.
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Familiarize yourself with classroom technology.
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Put together a few lesson plans for substitute teachers.
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Make copies of homework assignments for students.
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Write a welcome letter for each child to take home to their parents.
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Label cubbies and activity areas.
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Purchase cleaning supplies.
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Determine students’ classroom chores.
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Purchase First-Aid kit.
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Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.
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Create lunchtime, recess, and attendance routines.
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Decide how to manage restroom usage.
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Plan icebreaker activities. (Here are some fun, printable icebreakers for the first day of school!)
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Become acquainted with other teachers and staff.
- Relax!
