Summer break is here—and you deserve every second of rest. But if you’re anything like most teachers, your brain doesn’t totally shut off. Somewhere between the pool and the patio, you’re probably already thinking ahead to next year. Let’s discuss some tips for teachers over summer break!
The good news? You can prepare for the upcoming school year without sacrificing your summer. Here are a few low-stress ways to set yourself up for success while still soaking up the sunshine.
1. Reflect Before You Reset- Teacher Self Care
Before you dive into planning, take a moment to reflect on last year. How well did you manage your life as an educator? Ask yourself:
- What worked really well?
- What routines or systems felt chaotic?
- What did your students respond best to?
A simple journal page or voice memo can go a long way in helping you fine-tune your approach for next year.
2. Declutter Your Digital Space
Spend an hour or two cleaning out your Google Drive, desktop, or teaching apps. Organize files by subject or quarter, delete duplicates, and back up anything important.
✅ Bonus Tip: Use folders like “Start of Year Resources” or “Behavior Management” so you’re not digging come August.
3. Prep Reusable Systems
Use your summer energy to prep the things that will serve you all year long:
- Print and laminate classroom labels, center materials, or morning routine visuals.
- Update or organize your teacher binder or digital planner.
- Create a plug-and-play template for newsletters, sub plans, or parent notes.
Small efforts now = major time savings later.
4. Restock the Essentials (Early!)
Make a checklist of classroom basics you know you’ll need:
- Dry erase markers, folders, hand sanitizer, stickers, tissues…
Avoid the August rush and grab items now when they’re on sale or easy to find.
5. Learn Something New (But Keep It Light!)
Summer is a great time to take a mini course, read a PD book, or follow teacher influencers who inspire you. Look for resources that energize you—not ones that feel like extra work.
🧠 Pro Tip: Focus on one area you want to improve (classroom management, small group reading, student engagement, etc.).
6. Plan Your First Week Only
If planning makes you feel more relaxed, focus only on the first week. Map out:
- Icebreakers and community-building activities
- A simple classroom tour or procedure checklist
- One or two lessons that establish your teaching style
Leave the rest for later—you don’t need a full-year plan in July.
7. Set Boundaries Around Work Time During Summer Break
Designate specific “teacher time” each week (1–2 hours max) to stay lightly connected with your classroom planning—then step away. Summer is for you, not just school prep. You’ll return in August more energized, creative, and ready to teach if you truly rest in June and July.
✅ Smart Ways to Stick to It:
- Put it on your calendar like an appointment—treat it with boundaries.
- Keep a running “school list” in your phone or planner. Add ideas when they come, but revisit them only during your teacher time.
- Limit email check-ins. Try checking school email just once a week (or less).
- Set a “school-free” time block each day to fully unplug your teacher brain.
- Reward yourself after each session: take a walk, dive into a novel, meet a friend, or simply do nothing guilt-free.
✨ Remember: A well-rested teacher is a better teacher. Give yourself permission to pause.
💬 Final Thought:
You don’t have to choose between being prepared and being present in your summer. Small, intentional steps now will give you peace of mind later—and you’ll walk into your classroom feeling like the confident, organized rockstar you are.