Make The Beginning Of The School Year Great For Everyone

Teachers, staff, and students return from summer break energized and ready to dive into a new school year. Put time and special thought into helping them prepare for a great first day of school and a productive and rewarding year ahead. The following ideas will show your teachers, staff, and students that you want them to have the best year yet!

Tune In To Teachers’ Needs

A good education isn’t possible without great teachers. Be sure to put in extra effort to help make their jobs a little bit easier so they’re ready to take on all challenges this school year.

• Place a planner on each teacher’s desk. Include a list of important school events, such as assemblies and professional development days. Write phrases of praise and encouragement, such as “Great job!” or “You make a difference,” throughout the calendars.
• Help teachers manage stress—before things get hard. Hand out gift bags with self-care items, such as lavender spray, foot cream, a stress ball, and stress-relief tips. Include a journal for writing down feelings or doodling to relieve stress.
• Load tote bags with supplies that will come in handy throughout the school year. Hang a full tote on the doorknob of each classroom.

Step It Up To Recognize Staff

Your school runs on the efforts of a lot of people, some who work behind the scenes. Because all of them make a difference, be sure to show appreciation that they certainly deserve.

• Serve coffee and tea every morning during the first week of school to give new staff members a chance to meet their colleagues, and returning ones an opportunity to catch up. Provide each person with an insulated tumbler so they can take hot drinks with them.
• Put a basket of treat packs, survival kits, granola bars, dried fruit, and nuts on each teacher’s desk. Include a note that says, “It’s A Treat To Have You Here!”
• Start the year in style with a fresh, new school polo shirt or T-shirt for every staff member. Matching logo-wear builds camaraderie and school spirit.

Sow The Seeds Of Success For Students

The beginning of the school year is an exciting time when students get a fresh start and can set new goals to achieve their best. Do what you can to help them succeed.

• Organize a backpack program for your school. (See our previous blog post for tips on how to plan one.) These events help provide students with the important school supplies required to start off on the right foot.
• Make sure students stay organized and on task with student planners. They can use them to write down assignments and other important events. Plus, the planners include helpful tips and information that students can always have on hand.
• Promote good health and prevent germs by having water bottles available for students. Distribute them in classrooms or have students stop by the principal’s office to grab one.

A little goes a long way when it comes to making a difference for your teachers, staff, and students. Thoughtful incentives and tools can have a positive impact and make the new school year a great one for everyone.