Rules for Teachers on the First Day of
School
Typically, it’s the students who receive the
rules on the first day of school. However, there are some rules teachers should
follow too. Following these rules on the first day of school and throughout the
school year can help ensure success.
1. Be Welcoming-Make students feel comfortable in their new, unfamiliar
surroundings. Allow them to take ownership of the setting by referring to it as
“our classroom.”
2. Be Specific-If you weigh your grading components differently, break it down
on paper. If there are stages to your behavior modification plan, list the
steps you will take to correct misbehavior. If you give formal assessments on
regular days, create a calendar. These simple steps will keep your students and
their parents informed, and serve as evidence should your methods be questioned
by an administrator or parent.
3. Be Prepared-Just because it’s the first day of school, it doesn’t mean you
should improvise your lesson. Have the entire period planned out with ice
breakers, activities, and, yes, even classwork.
4. Be Collegial-Teachers often share the same students. These teachers likely
meet as part of a team. If your schedule allows, it would be helpful to make an
appearance in your colleague’s classroom during the first few days of school.
5. Be Ready for Anything-A new school year and new students mean a new set of unknowns.
Never be surprised when something happens for the first time and always be
prepared with a rational response to problems. Help
Teaching
