Don't Start Doubting Yourself Just Yet

 September and October are the Longest Stretch of the Year

It's easy to say not to doubt your abilities at the beginning of the school year, but much harder to do. You have worked hard to create a solid schedule. You've set up systems and routines. You've taught the kids how you want them to behave and reminded them of expectations. You've even gotten all of your fall assessments completed. All should be going fairly smoothly right? 

Well, if you are anything like me, you are currently second guessing yourself and maybe how things are working, how the kids are behaving, and how you are going to get everything done this year. Now is a good time to take a deep breath and remember: 

• It's only September (for those who start school in late August or early September- we haven't even been in school for a whole month.)
• Students are not settled yet, despite all of your efforts
• It's not too late to change plans or schedules
• Slow down and don't rush it
• Ask colleagues for help or ideas
• Make sure you are taking time for yourself each day to focus on your health

This is the longest stretch of the school year without holidays or vacations for most of us, but it is also the time of year when a few three day weekends wreak havok with getting through a whole week of school (for kids and teachers). You are just getting to know your students' strengths, weaknesses, personalities and the social dynamics between them. You are not alone, and if I recall correctly, this happens to me every year about this time. 

Hang in there fellow teachers, administrators, and families. It will all work out. It always does.