In this episode of The Education Connection, I'm walking you through exactly how I structure and teach my procedures on the very first day of school — and why it matters so much for the rest of the year. From unpacking supplies and reading expectations to lunchroom behavior and packing up to go home, I’m sharing it all.

🗓️ First Day of School Schedule:

• 8:00 AM – Greet students & decorate name tags
• 8:30 AM – Independent coloring & begin putting away supplies
• 9:00 AM – Teach rug expectations & read aloud
• 9:15 AM – Dance break or playground procedure practice
• 9:30 AM – Continue supply organization
• 10:00 AM – Block play & practice sharing
• 10:50 AM – Practice lining up for lunch
• 11:35 AM – Recess
• 12:00 PM – Practice lining up after recess
• 12:10 PM – Read aloud & rug routine review
• 12:30 PM – “Get to Know You” activity or block station rotation
• 1:00 PM – Practice lining up & attend specials (Music)
• 2:00 PM – Afternoon recess
• 2:20 PM – Pack-up practice while watching PBS

📚 Books Mentioned in This Episode:

• The First Days of School by Harry Wong (Audible version recommended — listen to Chapter 19!)
• Take Control of the Noisy Class by Rob Plevin – My personal favorite
• What Great Teachers Do Differently by Todd Whitaker
• Better Than Carrots or Sticks – New read for this year (review coming soon!)

🛒 Bonus Resource: Check out my Back to School Packet for fun, no-prep activities perfect for the first few days of school.

Get Ready for next year with these ultimate resources.

Get Ready for Kindergarten

Get Ready for First Grade

Get Ready for Second Grade

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Back-to-School Reset: A Fresh Start for Teachers and Parents

In this episode, we're turning the page from summer to school with a practical and encouraging conversation about how to reset for the new year. Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or both—this episode is your gentle nudge to breathe, refocus, and move forward with clarity.

We’ll reflect briefly on the 4-part Reset Series we just wrapped up and talk about what it means to truly feel ready—mentally, emotionally, and practically—for the back-to-school season. I’ll also share how my Get Ready resources can support your students as they transition back into routines, build confidence, and review important skills.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, behind, or just plain tired—this one’s for you. Let’s reset together.

👉 Grab the “Get Ready” packets in the links below!

🎧 Catch up on the 4-part Reset Series the last 4 episodes

Get Ready for next year with these ultimate resources.

Get Ready for Kindergarten

Get Ready for First Grade

Get Ready for Second Grade

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Teachers Pay Teachers:

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Spiritual Rest: Reconnecting with God in Everyday Moments

Description: In the final episode of our 4-part rest series, we’re talking about the kind of rest that truly restores: spiritual rest. This isn’t about naps or time off—it’s about slowing down enough to reconnect with God. Whether through nature, devotionals, quiet reflection, or even church community (yes, even when it’s complicated), spiritual rest invites us back to our source of peace and purpose.

In this episode, I’ll share ways to look for God in your everyday routines—even in the midst of lesson planning, caregiving, or prepping for a new school year. I’ll also reflect on how I’ve felt God’s presence while creating things that bring calm and clarity to both kids and families.

Plus, I’ll leave you with a powerful scripture, a prayer, and a gentle reminder: God is with you—right now, right where you are.

Get Ready for next year with these ultimate resources.

Get Ready for Kindergarten

Get Ready for First Grade

Get Ready for Second Grade

Connect with me on any of these Social Media Platforms.

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

Pinterest

Coaching

Blog

Teachers Pay Teachers:

Find Reading Comprehension Strategies Bundle

Find Genesis Bible Stories Bundle