[Ask an Educator] Advice for New Teachers

The start of a new school year is always a bit nerve-wracking, but it can be extra intimidating if you’re stepping into the classroom for the first time as an educator. Hind-sight is 20/20, so we decided to ask the experts for some insight on how to make the school year, whether it’s your first year teaching or your 100th, amazing. We turned to our amazing network of educators on Facebook and Twitter and asked: What advice would you give yourself as a new teacher?

Over 60 teachers answered, but here are a few of our favorite responses:

Time spent building relationships is time well-spent

Time & energy spent on building relationships matters a ton. Find mentors on your staff to listen and guide you; learn about your students as people not just academic beings; make sure to make positive outreach to families early and often.

— Mrs. Olson, NBCT (@dawnolsonaz) September 20, 2022

Make time to take care of yourself

As a new teacher, I would tell myself that self care is very important. Take time to meditate, journal, exercise, etc...after a long day. I can't pour into my students if I am not renewing myself-mind, body, and soul.

— Erica L. Edwards, M.Ed. (@EricaLeshawn) September 21, 2022

Perfection is not the goal

Perfection is not the goal, progress is. Enjoy the ride toward something highly effective, enjoyable, and energy giving.

— Moniqua Glasper (@GlasperMS) September 21, 2022

Hold on to the good moments

I would tell myself to hold onto the good moments and the good feelings! Write the memories down and keep them in a jar. When everything seems hard, or you’re tired, or you’re feeling hopeless or helpless, these small moments and feelings can lift you up!

— Susan Samay (@sjsamay) September 21, 2022

Math and reading aren’t the only important things you teach

Math and reading and science and all those things are important… but not as important as students feeling loved and cared for and supported. It’s okay to toss out the academics/lesson plans sometimes to just BE with the kids, laughing and having fun.

— Alex Whitmer (@alex_mich3lle) September 20, 2022

Collaborate!

I would tell myself to find people to collaborate with. Having a supportive team makes everything better!

— Allison (@AllisonH704) September 21, 2022

Set expectations early, but don’t forget grace

Set expectations and routines right off the bat. Give the kids grace when they need it. Pick your battles. Focus on the important goals and let the rest go.

— Momofthree (@ilovetchng) September 21, 2022

Find a mentor

I would tell myself to advocate for a mentor if not given one. And to collaborate with as many teachers as possible. If it allows, I’d tell myself to observe as many teachers as possible.

— Jessica (@Jlcamp03) September 20, 2022

Trust your gut and don’t dwell on mistakes

always trust your gut! and if you make a mistake, don't dwell on it, but learn from it and improve!

— Ms. Jasmine (@jaaasminerice) September 21, 2022

Every day is a fresh start

Every day is a fresh start. Don’t let one tough day bring you down. You’ve got this! Also good advice for students:)

— DPatron (@DPatron5) September 21, 2022

Respect your own time

Schoolwork is like laundry. You will get caught up but you will never get finished. Take some time for yourself.

— Toby Price (@jedipadmaster) September 21, 2022

Don’t reinvent the wheel

Don’t try to reinvent the wheel. There are so many resources out there to help you plan and teach a lesson.

— Mrs. Alison Case (@MrsAlisonCase) September 20, 2022

Pick your battles wisely

My advice I did revive as a new teacher was to pick my battles. I had to learn that I couldn’t control every situation and control what pertains to me. That helps me to have a better first year, and the rest of the years after that.

— Vasha7UP (@Vasha7Up) September 21, 2022

Give opportunity

Give multiple opportunities for your students to demonstrate their understanding. Teach explicitly and systematically. Remember that failure leads to success. My motto as a 34 year veteran is “Getting Better Every day.”

— Pamela Woodward (@pamwoodward1) September 21, 2022

Be comfortable leaving things unfinished

Learn to be comfortable with leaving some things unfinished. The work will be there tomorrow. Also, find the people in your building that light up with positivity - they will buoy you on the hard days.

— Ms. C (@PrekEveryday) September 21, 2022

Be sure to check out the threads to see all the awesome advice teachers shared with us! Be sure to follow us on social for more weekly questions and the chance to win fun prizes.

Looking for more teaching tips? Check out our blog 6 Classroom Strategies You Can Implement Today to Motivate Students.