Teacher Support

Maximizing Summer Success: A Teacher's Guide

Summer presents a golden opportunity for teachers to recharge, grow professionally, and rekindle a passion for teaching. Below, you’ll find some suggestions for making the most of your summer break to ensure that it is both restful and productive.

1. Engage in professional development

Investing time in high-quality professional development (PD) is crucial for teachers aiming to enhance their skills and keep up with educational trends. According to the Learning Policy Institute, teachers appreciate professional development led by colleagues that addresses local needs. Look for PDs that focus on enhancing leadership skills and fostering a collaborative environment where you learn from and with your peers.

2. Curate a summer reading list

Summer is the perfect time to dive into that TBR stack. Consider reading a mix of professional books, inspirational memoirs, and young adult fiction. Professional books, such as AI for Educators, How to Read Nonfiction Like a Professor, or Teach Like a Pirate, can provide new strategies and insights for the classroom. Memoirs like Educated and Born a Crime can also offer a fresh perspective. Reading popular young adult fiction not only gives you recommendations for your students, but also helps you understand their interests and challenges. Check out Goodreads’ list of YA Novels of 2024 for some suggestions on where to start.

3. Get inspired

Summer is also the perfect time to reignite your passion for teaching by having new experiences. Traveling (whether near or far) can provide fresh perspectives and ideas to bring back to your classroom. Visiting art or science museums can be both enriching and educational; many museums offer free or discounted programs for teachers, including educational lectures. Starting a Pinterest board filled with teaching ideas and classroom decoration tips can be a free, fun, and creative way to prepare for the new school year. Take some time to remind yourself why you love teaching by exploring new places and ideas.

4. Take a break

While professional development and classroom conceptualization are important, it’s equally crucial to take time off to rest and recharge. Teaching is a demanding profession, and you deserve a break! Spend time with family and friends, enjoy your personal hobbies, or simply relax. A well-rested teacher is more effective and enthusiastic, ready to tackle the new school year with renewed energy.

A balanced summer of professional growth, intellectual engagement, personal inspiration, and much-needed rest can set the stage for teachers to have a successful and rewarding school year ahead!