For beginning teachers: Proactive strategies to make the most of your first years of teaching

designed by Valerie Struthers, Jeff Holbrook, Randi Stanulis, Kathryn Bell, Michelle Prior and Sarah Williams

As a beginning teacher you may be looking forward to your first years of teaching with mixed emotions. On the one hand, you might be excited by the prospect of having your “own” classroom. On the other hand, you may feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities that it entails. Don't worry--our principal, colleagues and mentor teacher will be there to support your learning and that of your students.

Below you will find a list of common questions that beginning teachers often ask as they begin their careers. As you explore the questions below, you will find resources to help you thrive, not just survive, your first years of teaching.

• How can I develop a personal agenda?
• What are some ideas to help me through the beginning of my first year?
• How can I plan to make the most of my first year of teaching?
• How can I plan to make the most of my second and third years of teaching?
• How can I plan for my professional growth?
• What can I offer schools as a beginning teacher?
• What types of support might be available in my school?
  

Tools

• Questions to ask about a lesson
• Questions to ask about your teaching
• Questions to ask at the end of the year
• Questions to ask about your professionalism
• Assessing the effectiveness of your teaching
• ASSIST Professional Development Planner
  

Resources

• Just-in-time resources (for the beginning of the first year)

Sources of additional information

• References and resources