How to Have First Year Teaching Success

It is often said that the first year of teaching is the hardest. Developing lesson plans, learning to deal with parents and establishing a support system make for a difficult first year as a teacher. Expect it to be hard work at low pay, but also rewarding, particularly if you go in with a plan.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Partner with a mentor. Meeting with a teacher who has several years of classroom experience is crucial to first year success. A mentor can offer suggestions, listen to your frustration and build your confidence in the classroom.
2. Meet with your administrator on a regular basis. He is there to assist you when you need it, whether it is with a simple question or a concern about a classroom issue. Open up a line of communication with the principal to gain additional support early in your career.
3. Prepare. Have lesson plans done well in advance and back-up plans for when something may not be working. The more prepared you are that first year, the less stress you will feel.
4. Enforce your classroom rules. Start this from day one and continue with it throughout the year. Follow through with consequences when a rule is broken and review the rules as the year goes on.
5. Enjoy your job but don't let it consume you. Many first year teachers burn out quickly because they are teaching all day and then bringing work home at night, which leaves no time for fun. Finding a balance between your teaching career and your social life can alleviate the stress that comes with being overworked.