Starting a new year under the best of times can seem overwhelming. This year teachers are prepping for the unknown of what their classroom will look like. How often am I going to see my students? How many of my students will I see in person? Will I have to teach remotely for most of the year? Am I starting out in person or remotely?
To help out we thought we would put together ideas and resources you can use as you plan for the start of the year. The reality of the situation is that all teachers need to be prepared for interruption of their face-time with students.
Instructional Flexibility
Pediatricians, parents and teachers are all ready for students to be back in the classroom. Most districts are planning to start the school year with in person instruction. Use the time to prepare your students for changes in how instruction is going to be delivered.
Student Needs
This year it will be especially important to remember that it has been awhile since students have been in the classroom. Nothing is more frustrating for a student and a teacher than for misunderstandings to occur unnecessarily. There are some things that you can do to minimize the misunderstandings:
- Review the special needs of your students to develop an understanding of students prior to their coming into the classroom or accessing you remotely.
- If you get the chance to meet with student in person prepare the students to have their classroom “flipped” to learning from home by teaching them how to:
- access instructional materials online
- contact you from their computer
- use software necessary for class activities
Positive Targets
Students need clear achievable targets that they can see. Review and post the learning targets as “I can…” statements along with generic rubrics to help students know when they have met the targets. These need to be posted in the classroom or online through the learning management system your district uses.
Patience is Key!
This year is going to be challenging with many unknowns. Generating enthusiasm in students presenting them with challenges and keeping the targets clear are the best ways to keep students engaged in their learning.
And remember – Have Fun!