First Week Back to School!

by | Sep 4, 2025 | Reminders and Deadlines

The first week of school sets the tone for the entire year. Please keep these priorities in mind:

1. Build Relationships

  • Learn student names as quickly as possible. Use seating charts, attendance routines, or simple activities that reinforce names.
  • Take time to get to know students’ interests, strengths, and challenges.

2. Establish Routines and Expectations

  • Teach procedures step by step (lining up, entering/exiting, transitions, turning in work, etc.).
  • Practice these first few weeks, practice these routines consistently until they become habits.
  • Review expectations in a positive and collaborative way so students understand what success looks like. (May assign class duties or roles)

3. Begin Light Academic Engagement

  • Use the first few lessons to review and refresh prior knowledge.
  • Start with activities that allow all students to participate without pressure (games, collaborative projects, quick diagnostics).

4. Classroom Environment

  • Ensure materials and supplies are ready and accessible.
  • Keep your classroom organized—students should know where things belong and how to use them.
  • Begin anchor charts and displays with students, so the walls reflect their learning journey.

5. Communication & Connection with Parents

  • Welcome Letters: Please send your welcome letters to your parent groups this week. These should include:
    • A warm introduction of yourself.
    • Your planning time hours (so parents know when you are most available).
    • Your preferred method of contact (email, message, phone, etc.).
    • A positive note about the year ahead.
  • An example letter from Sr. Rayanna can be found here for reference: Welcome Letter 2024-2025.docx
  • Parent Orientation: Reminder that Parent Orientation is scheduled for Friday, 4–5 pm. Please be present and prepared to meet families.

6. DreamClass (Attendance & Gradebook)

  • Attendance: Please get familiar with taking attendance through DreamClass. Tutorial: How to Take Attendance.
  • Gradebook: Format your gradebook to include the relevant grading categories. Tutorial: How to Format Gradebook.
  • If you have trouble logging in or navigating DreamClass, please let me know right away.

7. Pre-Assessments

  • Each class should schedule a pre-assessment within the first week or two of school.
  • Prepared assessments have been created for you to use.
  • Access them here: Pre-Assessments Shared Drive.

8. Professional Mindset

  • The first week is about establishing habits, not rushing through the coursework.
  • Be patient, observe, and adjust to the class dynamic.
  • Take care of yourself—rest and balance are essential to maintaining energy and presence.