Stepping into success: Start the school year right

Submitted by Shawn Everett

August rolls around and for many of us, parents and kids alike, that means a new school year is approaching. After a summer of freedom, easing back into routines can feel like quite the climb. But as a retired teacher and a parent myself, I've learned a few time-tested tips to help everyone – from kindergartners to high schoolers, and yes, even us grownups – start the school year not just on the right foot, but maybe even with a happy little hop! Having taught for a quarter of a century in diverse settings like England, Florida, Texas and Missouri, and being named Teacher of the Year multiple times, I've seen firsthand what helps students thrive. Much of what I've learned has come from my own mistakes and from the wisdom of expert mentors along the way.

Make your first impression a good and lasting one! Folks, it’s about setting the stage, and often, it starts with simple things. Here’s a tip from the other side of the desk, if your school hosts a "Meet the Teacher" event, put it on your calendar and show up. On that exciting day, your child should watch you introduce yourself to the teacher, as you shake hands, while maintaining eye contact. Coach your child to do the same. Engaging positively with their new teacher makes a world of difference. It signals to your child that school is important, and that you're a team with their educators. Feel free to take a family photo with the teacher. Avoid getting into a deep, detailed discussion about your child right then, because the teacher probably has other parents to meet, but certainly set a time for a follow-up meeting if you feel it's warranted. It's also a great chance for a teacher to put a name to a face before the hustle and bustle of the official first day.

Within the first week of school, a small, thoughtful gesture from your child can truly brighten a teacher's day. A simple, handwritten note from your student expressing excitement for the year, perhaps tucked in with a gift like a new pen, a pack of pencils, or Post-it notes (items teachers always need!), is truly golden. If you took a family photo with the teacher at the Meet and Greet, include it with the note and gift. This helps the teacher associate your family's image, name, note, and gift, building a positive relationship from the start. A teacher is more likely to remember a child's name when they connect these positive elements, ensuring your child isn't first associated with misbehavior. It speaks volumes about your child's character and your family's appreciation.

Picture Perfect Memories (Without the Morning Rush) We all love those classic "first day of school" photos. Here’s a pro-tip from a parent who’s been there: stage it! A week or so before school officially starts, dress your child up, get their backpack ready, and snap that picture of them walking out the front door, looking back at the camera. You can even put a sign on the door, "Start of Third Grade!" Then, at the end of the year, take another picture of them walking in the front door with a "End of Third Grade" sign. It's a sweet way to see how they've grown. If you make this prep time a dress rehearsal, you can even note how long it takes them to get ready, which helps estimate prep time for real school mornings.

Talk the Talk, Walk the Walk (Curriculum & Routines) Take some time to look at your school's website – most school districts outline the curriculum for each grade. Sit down with your child and talk about what they'll be learning. A quick review of last year's concepts can also build confidence. This isn't about cramming; it’s about sparking curiosity and making them feel prepared.

For our own kids, we had a tradition the week before school: a "Back-to-School Meal" out. Breakfast is typically cheaper, less formal, and our kids loved pancakes! This wasn't just about the food; it was about being intentional. We emphasized how important education and learning are, and that school is a place for effort and improvement, not perfection. If your child is feeling anxious about the unknown of the new year, let them know that even veteran teachers feel jitters at the start of each new year.

Each new year can be a fresh start. As a veteran teacher and now a parent of two adults, I can tell you that routine is paramount – both in the classroom and at home. Now as a substitute teacher, I quickly know how successful an absent teacher is just by observing if students know the daily routines and complete them without constant direction. They enter, unpack, and know where to get the supplies and information to begin work. During transitions, they’re organized, whether handing in papers, switching tasks, or lining up. As renowned educator Harry Wong states, "The number one problem in the classroom is not discipline; it is the lack of procedures and routines." He also wisely notes, "Students want a safe, predictable, and nurturing environment—one that is consistent. Students like well-managed classes because no one yells at them, and learning takes place." As a parent and a teacher, I’ve tried shortcuts over the years, but skipping the training of procedures inevitably leads to far more wasted time and chaos.

As a parent, you can foster this too. At least one week before school begins, start adjusting wake-up and sleep times to align with the school schedule. Before the school year starts, get out a calendar. Together, mark off holidays, days off, and discuss expectations for screen time, homework, bedtimes, and morning/evening routines for school days. A dry-erase checklist or a flip deck of index cards showing one task at a time can be very helpful. Set up designated spots for backpacks, lunch kits, shoes, and notes from teachers. Don't just tell them; show them. Better yet, take a picture of what "where it belongs" looks like, and reinforce it with them. We always followed the mantra: "Don't just put it down, put it where it belongs, so you can quickly find it when you need it." Be sure to include "the why."

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate! Finally, remember that school success is a partnership. Communicate with your child's teacher early and often. Whether it's a quick email or a friendly note, brief check-ins throughout the year can nip small issues in the bud and build a strong relationship. If you're able, volunteering for even 30 minutes a week remotely or in the library can provide wonderful insights; shelve books, make posters or bulletin boards, organize Happy Birthday notes & non-food treats for the whole year. Anything to free up teacher time for instruction. Some of my parent volunteers even scheduled it before or after their child's lunch so they can eat with them weekly. A little planning and a lot of communication can truly set the stage for a smooth, successful, and joyful school year.

Here's to a great start for all our students, parents and educators!