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Back-to-school teacher checklist

The first weeks set the rhythm for the term. This checklist covers the practical things that make the mornings easier later on.

The week before

• Timetable, duty roster and room number confirmed
• Class lists and any support plans read
• Room set up: seating, supply station, turn-in tray
• First week of lessons planned and copied
• Sub folder made: timetable, class lists, emergency plans
• Logins working: email, gradebook, learning platform
• Supplies for your desk drawer: snacks, pens, tissues, chargers

Your morning setup

• Time your commute at school-time traffic
• Pick a fixed arrival time and stick to it
• Set up a lunch routine (batch on Sunday)
• Keep a 'school bag checklist' by the door
• Work out your wake-up time from your arrival time

The first week

• Teach routines: entering, turning in work, getting supplies
• Collect any forms you need
• Learn names (a seating chart with photos helps)
• Send a short hello email or letter home
• Block your prep periods with one job each
• Do a first Sunday reset

Use the wake-up time calculator to set your new school-year alarm.

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