So I’m here doom-strolling through TIK TOK on my phone, and I see that several teachers have already gone back to school. Like what?! Really?!
They’re already decorating classes, in Professional Developmetns and doing teachery stuff…wow.
That’s when I thought: “Let me put something together to help these bright-eyed and bush-tailed educators who have joined the ranks of HEROES!
Yes, the smell of fresh pencils, new planners, and overly ambitious Pinterest boards. Back-to-school season is here! That magical time when teachers are full of energy, hope, and dreams of color-coded lesson plans and silent work periods.
And then… the students show up. 😅
Let’s get real for a second: the first month of school is not the time to be perfect. It’s the time to survive, observe, lay groundwork, and repeat yourself 473 times a day. This blog is here to help you laugh through the chaos and plan smart—not just pretty.
🛠️ Expectation: “I’ll have my entire semester mapped out.”
Reality: “I spent 45 minutes figuring out how to un-jam the copier, 30 on laptop distribution, and then a fire drill happened.”
The first month is more about systems than syllabi. Instead of rushing to “cover content,” use this time to build your foundation.
Here’s what really matters during those first four weeks:
1️⃣ Teach the Room Before You Teach the Content
Middle and high school students are like baby deer in new hallways. They need:
- Clear routines (bell ringers, turn-in procedures, how to ask for help)
- Seating charts that evolve with your sanity
- Classroom expectations that are modeled, not just posted
🔁 And yes, you will have to repeat the pencil policy 17 more times. You’re not failing—they’re just not listening yet.
2️⃣ Build a Culture, Not Just a Curriculum
The first month is your chance to define your classroom vibe:
- Will students feel safe taking risks?
- Do they know your classroom is a judgment-free zone?
- Can they laugh with you (and not at you)? 👀
Try activities that invite personal reflection, identity sharing, or light group work. Set the tone that we’re in this together.
3️⃣ Assign a “Soft Start” Project
Want to assess skills without throwing kids into a literary volcano? Use low-pressure projects to:
- Get to know your students
- Introduce classroom routines
- Gather writing samples or speaking data
Ideas:
- A Personal Artifact presentation (great for shy kids!)
- A classroom constitution activity
- Creative writing “About Me” poems or narratives
- Short group skits based on classroom norms (yes, even in high school)
4️⃣ Middle Schoolers vs. High Schoolers: Choose Your Chaos
Middle Schoolers:
Come in packs. Think you’re being funny? They’ll repeat it back to you—forever. Need structure, brain breaks, and clear transitions or they will literally unravel.
High Schoolers:
Will sit silently with deadpan stares for three days before finally telling you your slideshow had a typo… on Slide 1. Need purpose, relevance, and trust before engaging.
Both groups? Hungry. For snacks and attention. Pack extra granola bars (and boundaries).
5️⃣ What to Cover in the First Month (Besides Procedures)
Here’s your short list of wins to aim for:
✅ Teach annotation expectations
✅ Introduce your grading policy (multiple times, with visuals)
✅ Do a writing diagnostic
✅ Start small with literary terms and close reading strategies
✅ Introduce classroom tech tools (Google Docs, Slides, Flip, etc.)
✅ Build in SEL and check-ins
✅ Give one “win” activity where every student can succeed
✅ Teach how to disagree respectfully (because… discussion season is coming)
💡 Pro Tip: Keep a “First Month Survival Folder”
Include:
- Emergency sub plan
- An extra copy of your class expectations
- Bell ringers or writing prompts you can pull out on no-prep days
- Chocolate. For you. Not them.
💬 Final Thought: Stop Trying to Win the Year in Week One
You don’t need to impress them. You need to guide them, hear them, and set boundaries with heart.
And when you look up in October and realize that your students know where to turn in work, how to respectfully disagree, and actually enjoy being in your room?
You won’t miss that Pinterest board. I promise.
Want a free first month checklist, sample welcome lesson, or classroom culture activities? Drop a comment or download my freebie pack [here]! 💌
After downloading the FREEBIE above, check out these other awesome resources to help you get through the year! Good luck and EMAIL ME, if you need help throughout the year!
The Angry Teacher 
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