Important Beginnings for Beginners

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If you are a student teacher, a new teacher, or are simply new to a school, you need to get to know your colleagues before school starts. Perhaps the principal or someone else will introduce you to the building staff. If not, don't wait for people to come to you. Take the first step. Introduce yourself, and explain that you are trying to learn the proper procedures. People will appreciate your effort, and be much more inclined to help.

In addition to other classroom teachers, make sure you meet the custodians, secretaries, kitchen staff, librarians and media specialists, counselors, and special teachers (reading, math, gifted, special education, ESL, arat, music, band, physical education, and so on). If time doesn't permit face-to-face encounters before school starts, ask for an organization chart that lists the staff in these positions.

Also, be sure to:

• Read the school policy manual.
• Learn the physical layout of the building.
• Become familiar with schoolwide objectives.
• Write out a detailed first-day schedule, keeping in mind that you must remain flexible enough to respond to the unexpected.

You'll also want to begin stockpiling materials. Long before the school year starts (and even before you have a permanent teaching position), you can develop an idea file and start collecting supplies.

Building a Stronger Faculty
First year teachers, see how these technologies can build stronger teacher collaboration. New teachers will be pleased to discover how these ed-tech tools enhance professional development.

Policies & Practices: Parent-Teacher Conferences
Kneas discusses how to make parent-teacher conferences a valuable experience for both new teachers and kids' families. Thoughtful planning, effective training and good follow-up efforts are recommended to first year teachers.

Engaging Students: Keep Them on the Edge of Their Seats
New teacher tips for classroom management that keeps students engaged but under control. First year teachers will note that it emphasizes the importance of consistency.

LESSON PLAN

Our Classroom Rules Students use critical-thinking and writing skills to develop a set of classroom rules. First year teachers and new teachers will be pleased to...