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Expect that things will rarely unfold as you envisioned in your lesson plans. However, don’t skip the planning process—it’s still essential.
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Your principal isn’t always being difficult; she’s simply managing numerous responsibilities.
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Dressing professionally every day can feel like a chore. You might be frustrated about reverting to your natural hair color and removing your tongue ring. In time, you’ll see this as a positive change. Remember, Fridays are casual days—just avoid those bell bottoms!
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Okay, I take that back—sometimes your principal really does seem harsh. Keep your head down, focus on your work, and a small gift of chocolate can go a long way.
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It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and shed a tear during recess—trust me, you’re not the first, nor will you be the last.
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Forge a partnership with another teacher; you both will become each other’s support system and likely remain friends for years to come.
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The to-do list at the end of each day will always be long. Working late into the night won’t change that. Prioritize what needs to be done for the next day, and then head home—you’ll be a more effective teacher for it.
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Make sure to enjoy your weekends! Cutting out 200 laminated ladybug wings does not count as fun. Reconnect with activities you enjoyed before teaching; it’ll recharge your spirit for the week ahead. And feel free to hand off those ladybug wings to that mom who’s eager to help.
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Remember that your students face challenges outside of the classroom that you may never witness. You are a vital constant in their lives—never underestimate that role.
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Prepare for some tough days. You might be called names or even get physically hurt—don’t take it personally; it’s not about you.
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Parents will seek your advice about their children, which may feel odd since you don’t have kids yourself and often feel like a kid. Just offer your best input—maybe suggest they eat more vegetables to sound wise.
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That quirky teacher with the wild hair is the one swiping your Coke from the lounge. Consider getting a mini fridge for your room—it’s a game changer.
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You will make mistakes—lots of them. That’s part of the learning process and will prepare you for the future, especially since you’ll eventually be a parent to twins.
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When you mess up, it’s okay to apologize to your students. They need to see your vulnerability and willingness to make things right.
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Yes, you might get thrown up on by a student. This is probably karma for that incident with the fancy shoes at church. Just roll with it and try to keep the other kids safe!
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Speaking of unexpected surprises, keep an eye on the boys in line—they may be up to no good. Walk in the center to maintain better control.
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Veteran teachers who wear apple-themed jewelry actually have valuable insights. Spend time in their classrooms; sharing stories about grandkids can lead to helpful advice.
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Feel free to borrow ideas from fellow teachers. Don’t hesitate to ask if you can use a resource that seems effective in their classroom—it’s a common practice.
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Keep a record of the hilarious things your students say; you’ll appreciate these memories later.
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As a newcomer, you may feel pressured to volunteer for everything. Remember, it’s perfectly fine to decline. You don’t need to join every committee just yet—focus on mastering your own classroom first.
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You’ll soon realize that education is filled with acronyms that sound like a foreign language. Don’t stress about memorizing them; they’ll change in no time.
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Prepare to fall in love with your students—they’ll challenge you in ways you never imagined and will shape your teaching journey in incredible ways.
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Summary
Reflecting on my first-year teaching experience, I realize I would advise my younger self to embrace the unpredictability of the classroom, seek support from experienced colleagues, and prioritize self-care. Establishing a healthy work-life balance is crucial, as is recognizing the profound impact you have on your students’ lives. Mistakes are part of the journey, and learning to cope with challenges will ultimately enrich both your teaching and personal development.