Around this time of year, it usually seems like this is the last hurrah for Summer. It is hotter, stickier and usually uncomfortable in a closed room, like a classroom. But for most teachers, it is time to get prepared for the upcoming school year.

I myself have been visiting my classroom for the last 2 weeks. I have been bringing in supplies and cleaning out the things we do not need for the upcoming school year. I was also replacing the RENUZIT air fresheners in the storage areas as those “cloakrooms were built in the 1960’s and they smell like they were unearthed back then too. Nothing wrong with the 1960’s as it brought many great things in that era, but do you wear any of your clothes that you wore in the ‘60’s now? And why is that? BECAUSE THEY SMELL….case closed.

Seriously, all teachers have to reorganize or should reorganize their rooms every year. It keeps it fresh and clean and a new set of students makes the whole learning atmosphere unique. Here are a few of my tips for teachers that feel that they are in the same old rut.

1. Change the way the students are arranged. Move the desks in a different pattern. Move work tables if you can. Sometimes you can do this quite often during the year so if you keep the same arrangement for most of the year, maybe it is time to change it up.

2. Enjoy the weather, while you can. I enjoy Fall and most of the other seasons. I like to take the kids out of the classroom sometimes to just experience the seasons. My kindergarten class does a project with changing colors on the leaves. Why not take a quick field trip around the school to see some changing colors? That way the ideas could grow into great ideas for projects and assignments.

3. Let the students pick their spots to sit, for the first couple of weeks. I have tables in my room and the students can sit anywhere. Eventually there are problems with differing ideas and personalities. It is a good bet to let nature go its course and by the 5th week (or maybe sooner), THEN have a seating chart. That way you kind of know who gets along well or too well.

4.Have general supplies. Keep your room filled with general supplies like paper, construction paper, glue, etc. I like to keep a gallon of Elmer’s glue on hand just in case if during the year the glue runs out. I also have plenty of scissors, pencils and crayons from previous years. The problem for me is organizing it all and that is why I go into my classroom early to organize. Another thing to do, is look at your pencil sharpeners. Mine are set too high and some are too old. Maybe a fresh pencil sharpener and a convenient spot might make the school year go more smoothly?

5. Be excited about the school year. Nothing is more of a downer then a disappointed teacher who does not want to get back to school. I see students come into the library and they look down and out. A happy and reassuring face makes a jittery and scared student become a calm and inquisitive mind.

There are many more tips that I have, but because most of you are enjoying the Summer, I will cut this short. Get ready for those students and have a great School Year!

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