It’s that time of year when Target and Walmart dedicate sections of their stores to "Back to School" promotions. For some teachers, the "On Sale" signs signal the end of their summer break and the beginning of another work cycle. For others, these sales can provide a moment of reflection as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
In today’s blog, I want to pull out a few reflections I had from these back-to-school sales that can help educators start the year with optimism.
1. Even your "worst" student buys back-to-school supplies. 📙
Take a moment to think about that. Yes, even the student who might not be on your list of favorites is out there shopping for back-to-school supplies. They’re picking out folders they like and pens with the coolest colors (they might lose them all in the first week, but at least they had them). Perhaps, deep down, they’re telling themselves that this year will be different. They want a fresh start, and they hope this year will be better. Maybe, just maybe, this will be the year they change. You could be that educator in their life. Give them that chance.
2. Parents are excited for back-to-school. 👪
The most precious possession every parent has is their child. When they drop their child off at school, they’re placing their trust and hope in the hands of the school staff. During back-to-school shopping, you’ll often see parents and kids picking out notebooks, folders, pens, and backpacks together. In these small moments, parents are trying to set their child up for success; parents want what is best for their child. Reflect on the level of trust and faith parents are putting in you as an educator. Parents are a tremendous resource and, when they believe that the educators want the best for their child, are willing to do extraordinary things to support the work. Reach out to them.
3. Every new school year is a great act of optimism. 📅
No one enters the school year expecting it to be the worst. I’ve never encountered a teacher or administrator who believes the upcoming year will be worse than the last. While the future is uncertain, we all begin with a sense of optimism. It’s important to harness that energy and make intentional commitments that pave the way for a positive and successful year. Use this fresh start as an opportunity to set goals with your team. One powerful practice I’ve seen is educators writing a letter to their "end-of-the-year self," which the administrator holds onto and shares at the year's end to reflect on what was achieved. The start of the year is a time to embrace optimism - don’t let it slip by!
4. There’s a student who’s excited to see you. 😍
Summer may be a time of relaxation for some, but for others, it can be a period of deep boredom and loneliness. Some students have no exciting vacation stories to share on the first day back (skip this activity). For them, the first day of school is the highlight of their year.
While the school year will have its challenges, the start of the year offers a fresh opportunity to correct past mistakes, improve systems, strengthen relationships, and continue shaping the next generation of leaders and citizens. It’s no small task, and it’s too big to tackle all at once. But for now, we can just be happy to pick up a pack of glue sticks for “25% off.” Let’s make this year a great one!
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