I remember being a first-year teacher like it was yesterday. Honestly, in some ways… it still feels that way. Teaching through 15+ months of virtual learning during the pandemic had even veteran teachers tossing out most of that college coursework and learning right alongside our students. It was me. I was a veteran teacher of almost 10 years in 2020!
Whether you start your teaching journey in a physical classroom or on a virtual platform, please hear this: Teaching is hard. Every. Single. Year. It shouldn’t be this hard, but it is. The good news? Teaching doesn’t necessarily get easier; you get better. And just when you think you’ve got it all figured out… the universe will humble you. 😅
Now that I’m almost 15 years into my teaching career, I feel ready to offer some heartfelt, practical advice. These first-year teacher tips have helped make each new school year a little smoother—and a lot more joyful.
✅ Tip 1: Write It Down Now—You Will Forget Later
As the years go by, you’ll build systems. My summers are usually spent prepping interactive notebooks, making student name tags, and organizing classroom materials. Then August hits, and I try to log into my school email… except I can’t remember my password.
Sound familiar? 😅 You’ll click “forgot password,” then learn your new password can’t be the same as your old password. Students will have the same issue!
💡 TO DO:
- Create password cards for all classroom platforms (Google, Canvas, IXL, etc.).
- Store your credentials in a safe, central location—I keep mine in the front pocket of my teacher planner.
- For students, use interactive notebook inserts or foldables they can keep in their binders or folders. You can grab the student template FREE in my resource library!
🧡 Tip 2: Relationships First. Always.
Here’s a truth I’ve learned the hard way: People > Policy. No strategy, curriculum, or data set will matter if your students don’t feel seen, heard, and loved.
When I first started teaching, I tried to keep a professional distance. I was 22 years old and desperately wanted to feel like a “real” adult. Looking back? That distance made it harder to reach my kids.
Kids don’t care what you know until they know that you care. ❤ Make building relationships your top priority, especially during the first few weeks of school. Focus on community-building over curriculum. Students will learn so much more from a teacher they feel connected to.
💡 TO DO:
Use icebreaker activities to foster connection:
- In person? Try name games, “Find Someone Who,” and “This or That.”
- Online? Have students decorate a virtual locker or room that reflects their interests. Use Jamboard or Google Slides for sticky note intros like “Two Truths and a Lie.”
- Create a word cloud of adjectives students use to describe themselves.
These connection-building routines help develop strong classroom culture. Strong culture allows students (and teachers!) to feel safe, show up, and try their best every day.
🚫 Tip 3: Don’t Compare Yourself to the Highlight Reel
Can I just say… I am SO glad Instagram and Pinterest weren’t a thing when I started teaching!
I can’t imagine the pressure of trying to create a picture-perfect classroom, match every TikTok trend, or decorate like a magazine spread… and while also learning how to teach?! No wonder this next generation of teachers are so anxious all the time. Please, don’t fall into the comparison trap!
Here’s the truth: Most “Pinterest-perfect” classrooms you see are staged. Yes, even mine. 🙈 Just outside the frame, you’ll find stacks of ungraded papers, broken crayons, and a dozen rogue glue sticks. Really!
💡 TO DO:
- Save your money. Before buying classroom supplies, talk with your admin team to see what’s already available or what other teachers might be willing to share.
- Less is more, especially if you teach students with sensory sensitivities or special needs.
- Instead of fancy decor, let students help decorate the room with their work. It builds ownership and celebrates their learning.
And when things are looking less than picture perfect? That’s okay. Hang a sign that says: “Excuse the mess. We’re learning in here!”
🧘🏽 Tip 4: Relax, Renew, Reset—For You and Your Students
Almost everything works better when you unplug it for a while—including people. Please make time for regular brain breaks during your school day. These short pauses help students refocus, boost brain function, and improve overall learning.
In a physical classroom, aim for a movement break every 25–30 minutes. Online or with younger learners? Keep lessons short and build in breaks every 10–15 minutes.
💡 TO DO:
Set a timer or phone alarm to remind yourself. Use websites and apps like:
- GoNoodle for movement and dance breaks
- Calm for mindfulness and breathing
- Play a quick round of I Spy, Simon Says, or Would You Rather?
The benefits aren’t just for students—you need brain breaks, too!
My Final Thoughts for the Novice Teacher
If you’re in your first year of teaching, I want you to know:
- You are not alone.
- You are doing better than you think.
- You don’t have to do it all. Not this year. Not ever.
Your classroom doesn’t have to be perfect. Your curriculum doesn’t have to be flawless. What matters most is that your students feel safe, supported, and seen.
You’ve got this. And I’ve got your back!
ACTIONABLE STEPS: 💬 Let’s support each other, teacher to teacher. Let me know in the comments below:
- What’s something you’ve learned already in your first year of teaching? OR
- If you’re a veteran, what advice would you give to a new teacher walking into their classroom for the first time?
