Stress and Anxiety of a New School Year

There’s a saying that states that every student starts a new school year with an A. Basically what they mean is that they have a fresh start. I believe every student starts the year with an A as well. That A can either stand for anticipation or anxiety. If a student struggles with anxiety then that stress can create a difficult start to the school year. New classes, new teachers and just getting back into a routine are difficult to deal with. As summer break comes to an end, and schools start to get back in session, there’s a need for planning, patience and positivity to help children get ready for a successful school year.

One thing that we can plan ahead on is our morning routines. Kicking things off right at home can help start the day off right. Knowing pick up and drop off plans can also reduce stress. If the student knows that they are riding the bus or being picked up by grandma before the leave for the day then it’s one less thing for them to worry about.

A new year often brings on new sleeping habits. Slow risers and worn out kids in the evening can be an issue at home and at school. Patience is key as they all get back into a routine. The struggle is real.

Remaining positive and attacking the new year head on in a proactive way is a quick way to a smooth school year. Teachers, be the calming face the students need in the morning. Have a positive attitude, celebrate success and be encouraging during difficult times. If we all work together we can help reduce anxiety and move towards a smoother transition into the new school year. Here’s to a great 19-20 school year to all the teachers and staff in our area schools!

Reflect on Last Year for a Better Next Year!

Philosopher John Locke is quoted as saying "Education begins the gentleman, but reading, good company and reflection must finish him". We were all drawn to education by different forces. Some by a supportive classroom teacher, some by a relative that was in education and others by the desire to help kids be the best that they can be in this world. Whatever your reasoning we can all agree that growth is the key to a successful classroom and school. I want to get stale and show no growth, said no one ever! 

 As educators we are constantly reading. It may not always be for pleasure but there's always something. Summertime is when the tweets go wild with what books everyone has on their summer reading list. We've got that covered. If you don't read, it's a good time to start!
I like to look at good company as my PLN (professional learning network). When I joined Twitter a few years back it changed the way I looked at professional learning. Being active on Twitter connects you with new voices with new ideas. It offers support on a daily, or hourly, basis if you need it. It's up to the minute, personalized PD at it's finest. Follow me, I'll follow you back and we can learn from each other! Twitter @jasoncmcdowell 
Let's get back to the purpose for this entire post, reflection. It's the final piece to this quote about education. Reflection is valuable in so many ways. Don't like the way a lesson went, reflect and make adjustments. Had a difficult encounter with a parent? Take time to reflect on your next steps and what could have been done differently in the first place. We don't always have time at the end of the day to process everything that went on. This time of year is a great one for educators. It can be easier, not EASY but easier, to find some time to think about the previous year. What would you do differently going into next year. What pleasant surprises do you want to build on in your classroom, school or district?