The school year was a whirlwind of lesson plans, grading marathons, classroom wins, and “what just happened?” moments. Before you throw your teacher bag in a closet and run straight into summer break (totally fair!), take a moment to pause and reflect.
Reflection isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a chance to process the highs, learn from the lows, and grow into an even stronger educator next year. Whether you’re journaling privately, meeting with your teaching team, or prepping for next year, these 10 reflective questions are the perfect place to start.
1. What lesson, unit, or project was the most successful—and why?
Think about what made it resonate. Was it student engagement? Your enthusiasm? A new approach or tool?
2. What was the biggest challenge you faced—and how did you handle it?
Whether it was behavior, burnout, or balancing everything, recognizing how you responded builds self-awareness and growth.
3. Which student (or group) surprised you this year—and how?
Celebrate the breakthroughs, even the small ones. Often, those unexpected moments are the most rewarding.
4. What classroom systems or routines worked well—and which ones flopped?
Did your seating chart, bell ringers, or homework system help or hinder your flow? Keep what works and toss the rest!
5. How did you grow professionally this year?
Maybe you mastered a new curriculum, led a PD, or just learned to hit “save” more often. Growth is growth.
6. What feedback (from students, parents, or colleagues) stuck with you?
Praise, suggestions, or even critiques can shine a light on how others experience your teaching.
7. When did you feel most energized as a teacher?
Identify what lit you up—chances are, it’s where your passion thrives and where your focus should grow.
8. What one thing would you change if you could rewind the year?
No guilt—just reflection. What would you tweak to make things smoother or more effective?
9. What’s one small win you’re proud of that might go unnoticed?
Maybe you stayed consistent with morning check-ins. Or nailed grading deadlines. Or connected with a quiet student.
10. What’s your word or mantra for next school year?
Choose something empowering, calming, or purposeful to guide your future mindset.
🌿 Final Thoughts:
Reflecting doesn’t mean reliving every tough moment. It means gathering your strengths, your lessons, and your joy—so you can walk into summer lighter and more confident.
Print these questions out, answer a few with a friend, or bring them to your teacher team meeting. However you use them, just make space to honor how far you’ve come.
Next year we’ll be better for it! We’ll hit the ground running and more energized to get the new year started!
The Angry Teacher 
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