Inspiring Goals: Educators Share Their Vision for the Classroom in 2023

New year’s resolutions have a place in the classroom, too! Setting goals for the new year can help educators focus on personal and professional growth, increase motivation, improve student outcomes, engage in reflective practice, and access professional development opportunities.

We asked educators on Facebook and Twitter to share with us what their goals for the classroom are for 2023. Here are a few of our favorite responses that we think will inspire you as you set your own goals for 2023: 

Create a calm classroom environment

My goals for this year are to improve the social/emotional skills of my young students. I strive to create a calm, safe space so students feel comfortable taking academic risks. I have focused on professional development, and am applying that to my teaching - especially reading.

— Mrs. Perlish (@dperlish3) December 13, 2022

Expand on this year’s progress

I've really committed to using depth and complexity icons and the differentiation system in my class this year, so I hope to expand that next year, particularly with a focus on students learning to express themselves in a productive whole-class discussion. I know they can do it!

— Kyla Mora (@kylapmora) December 13, 2022

Slow down

My goal is to slow down & worry less about assessments! Learning is happening all the time and I don’t always have to document everything !

— Stef (@ostefanijao) December 14, 2022

Keep working on connections

My hope is to help students continue to rebuild human connection. COVID took a toll on students and how they interact with the world around them. They are coming around, but it’s important for them to understand the power of in-person relationships and communication.

— Señora McCollum (@SenoraMcCollum) December 12, 2022

Foster a growth mindset

I would like to work on fostering a strong growth mindset with my 2nd grade students!

— Jennifer Hartley (@tuscanmomma) December 13, 2022

Boost confidence in reading

My goal is for my students to become better readers and to become more confident in their abilities. I also hope to continue creating a positive classroom culture that they are happy to be part of each day.

— Ashley (@anr131) December 13, 2022

Help students be more mindful

I’m trying to teach my students to be mindful of what they know and don’t know so they can ask the right questions during study hall.

— AllchemAllday (@AllchemAllday) December 13, 2022

Give meaningful feedback

My goal for the new year is to be better at grading and returning assignments quicker so the students get feedback while it’s still meaningful for them!

— Ms. Joyce Johnson  (@mamajoycemarie) December 13, 2022

Read for fun

My personal goal and my goal for my students is that we all read more for pleasure. It’s so important to take time to read, it’s relaxing and you just might learn something new!

— DPatron (@DPatron5) December 14, 2022

Ensure everyone feels at home in the classroom

My goals for the new year are:
1. Make sure my students know they’re loved
2. Make sure I’m teaching them something everyday
3. Inspire them to be well rounded citizens
4. Guide them to make good choices
5. Treat them like my own

—  Miss K (@BeckyKurkowski) December 13, 2022

Ready to set your goals for the new year? Before you get started, take a look at these guiding questions designed to help you reflect on the previous year, so you can think about all the great things you’ve already accomplished, and plan for your next steps.