Back to School Checklist for Elementary Teachers
Tips for Preparing to Return to Teaching in a K-5 Classroom
Aug 1, 2008
There rarely seems to be enough time to prepare before returning to the classroom. This handy checklist can be used to keep track of meaningful preparation activities.
The first day of school quickly approaches with a flurry of activity. The number of things that must be accomplished can be overwhelming. A checklist is a convenient way to stay organized while preparing for the day students arrive.
Checklist for K-5 Teachers
- Talk with other teachers about incoming students or, if available, read through student files. This provides an initial impression of each child; including strengths and weaknesses for both behavior and academics.
- Consider how to arrange desks, where to put learning stations and space for circle time. Then put everything in place.
- Create a seating chart for the first day. Keep in mind any special needs identified by the student files. Be ready to adjust and modify it once student personalities are known.
- Organize the cabinets and counters for student supplies. Use labels with clearly printed words so students know where to find and return items.
- Determine rules and consequences. Keep in mind the age of the students, school rules and personal preference.
- Create posters of the rules and consequences. Laminate them so they are better able to survive a full school year.
- Create a poster of the daily schedule. Laminate it and place it in an obvious location and at student eye level.
- Decorate the bulletin board. Use bright colors, pictures, and clear print letters, especially for younger students. Laminate pieces that should remain throughout the school year.
- Check the computer, overhead and other technological devices in the room. Turn in a request for any repairs now so the repair can be done by the time students arrive.
- Review collected ideas for activities and lessons. Especially look for ones that might be useful in the first month or could help with integrating technology into an existing assignment.
- Write a welcome letter to parents. Give them an initial idea as to what they can expect the next few days and throughout the school year.
- Create first day packets or folders. Place in it the welcome letter to parents, important school papers and a welcome note for each student. A pre-sharpened pencil is also useful and will reduce the number of trips to the sharpener the first day.
- Prepare name tags. These might include tags for each student as well as labels for desks, cubbies and coat hooks.
Once their physical space is ready to welcome students, teachers can be better prepared mentally to face the challenges of a new school year. Less stress can lead to more enjoyment of those first few days.
The copyright of the article Back to School Checklist for Elementary Teachers in Teaching Strategies/Mentorship is owned by Tammy Andrew. Permission to republish Back to School Checklist for Elementary Teachers in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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