The room has been decorated for weeks and is ready, floors are clean, the locker tags are hung, desks have been grouped strategically and have students names on top ready and waiting, and my website is updated (for now). There are only a few minor clerical things I'll need to do on Monday before the lights go down and school closes. For the most part I am in really good shape for opening day... So why am I nervous?
You only get one chance to make a first impression! The first day sets the tone. As a teacher I want my students to go home happy and excited on the first day of school. Yet at the same time, it is important I set the tone for the learning environment. I also need to show the students I am firm, but fair. On day ONE dozens of routines will be started, rules discussed, supplies will be unpacked, new friendships will be made, and learning will begin. We will waist no time getting started with math, reading and writing all on the 1st day of school. It's a juggling act as I balance all of these things and make sure nothing gets dropped! On the 1st day I have a long list of To Do's and I'll check it twice, while at the same time I'm figuring out who's naughty and nice! (they are all NICE!) And then, before they leave for the day they will be sent home with 10 lbs worth of paper work for their parents to sign and return, packing up for the day and making sure everyone has all of their papers in the correct folder is a task in itself. At 3:10, when the buses are announced, I will secretly cross my fingers and hope that my students all get on the correct bus, arrive home safely, and walk in the house with a huge smile on their face.
I look forward to greeting your child with a friendly smile on Tuesday as we hit the 3rd Grade campaign trail running!
If your child is a bit nervous and excited about the 1st day of school this year, you can share my secret and tell them they are not alone!
Sleep tight!