17 Top tips for first year teachers – what NOT to do

17 Top tips for first year teachers – what NOT to do

by | Mar 3, 2025 | Blogging, Teacher Tips & Hacks

17 Top tips for first year teachers – what NOT to do

The first year of teaching is daunting to say the least. While universities may teach you theories and ideas, the actual practice of being in the classroom full time is a whole other kettle of fish. 

First year teachers need to be careful in order to protect themselves from burnout. We know the statistics are not in your favour here. 

Being a teacher is hard work. There is never enough time to do all the things required of us from lesson planning, to parent-teacher conferences, to report writing, and the endless administration. Throw in the fact that you are a new teacher at a new school just trying to find your feet, and it feels near impossible. 

After over 15 years of teaching, being a mentor teacher, and head of faculty, I have picked up on some things that make a real difference for new educators. These are tips that will help you survive your first few years so that you can make the most of your teaching career. 

 top tips for first year teachers

So here are 17 tips for first year teachers.

top tips for first year teachers

17 Tips for First Year Teachers

1. Don’t try and do everything: Yes you will be asked to run the after school dance troupe or the debating team… but it is ok to say no. As a first year teacher your focus needs to be on your pedagogy, not extracurricular activities. You will have plenty of time in your career to explore and be a part of these other opportunities.

2. Don’t avoid asking for help: Your fellow educators would prefer you ask for help when you need it, rather than struggling on your own. As first year teachers you are not expected to know it all!

3. Don’t forget to take your lunch breaks: This is important for you to nourish your body and keep your energy up, but its also important for building meaningful relationships with your colleagues. Around the lunch table there are often excellent conversations in which the best advice comes out and these professional relationships are ones which will server you long term. This is so important for first year teachers as it will help you to feel connected and supported.

4. Don’t stay at work after 5pm: It is important to set boundaries and ensure that you stick to them. Teaching is known as a profession where we always take work home. While sometimes that is unavoidable, it is also necessary for you to put good practices in place from the first day of school.

5. Don’t quit your hobbies: Hobbies are great for your mental health. It is also an important part of who you are. Becoming a teacher shouldn’t change that or take that away from you. Make time for the things you enjoy as it will help you to survive in the profession long term.

6. Don’t forget that AI can make your life easier: As first year teachers, you will not have time to do everything or create everything yourself. AI can actually be of great help here! Read my blog posts ‘Differentiation using AI‘.

7. Don’t agree to anything on the spot: Sometimes, as first year teachers, you can be asked to do extra things and in the moment you agree, but when you try to fit it into your already full schedule you realise you should have said no. Get into the practice of saying, ‘thanks so much for thinking of me. Let me look at my schedule and get back to you’.

8. Don’t compare yourself to veteran teachers: It is easy to look over and think you are not as good as veteran educators, or can’t do as much or can’t be as creative. Of course that’s the case! You are new and still learning! Remember they also started where you are today. You will develop your own teacher style with time and there is no ‘one way’ to be a good teacher.

9. Don’t isolate yourself from friends and family: During the first year of teaching it can be easy to isolate yourself as you bury yourself in work. Try to make sure you still enjoy family get togethers and special occasions. Your family and friends will be the ones to try to support you in this time as well!

10. Don’t let a bad day carry through to the next day: We all have bad days in the classroom. Even us experienced teachers. Try to shake it off and start fresh the next day.

 

11. Don’t believe in work-life balance: There isn’t really such thing as a work-life balance. There will be times through the year where it feels like its all work. Then holidays come and it feels like you get to live your life again. Or it could be that you have a few massive work days and then still are able to manage enjoying yourself on the weekend. Just be aware that it doesn’t always look like both are happening at the same time – and that is ok. top tips for first year teachers

12. Don’t forget to set boundaries (and stick to them): It is important to think about what boundaries you want to put into place early. For example, do you have a particular time of day you want to leave by? Will you turn off your work emails outside of work hours? Do you want to make sure you make it to your Wednesday night dance class? By being specific and mindful of your boundaries you are more likely to be able to stick to them rather than just winging it. 

13. Don’t avoid taking sick days when you need them: As a first year teacher it is inevitable that you are going to get sick or run down. Take your sick days when you need to. If you don’t, you will end up sicker and needing more days off than if you just took the one or two you needed when you started feeling unwell.

14. Don’t be disheartened by what you see on social media: Teachers who share on social media can have some wonderful ideas that are creative and helpful. But if you’re someone who gets disheartened seeing others thrive in their career while you’re struggling through each day, it might be more helpful for you to take a social media break. 

15. Don’t forget to prioritise your mental health: At the end of the day, your mental health is the most important thing you need to look after this year. Setting boundaries, keeping your hobbies and connections with family, is a good start to keeping mentally fit. 

16. Don’t avoid using your school’s support systems for difficult students: I’ve heard so many beginning teachers say they don’t want to send difficult students out of class because they are worried it will reflect badly on them as a teacher. The school has discipline processes in place because they know that we all encounter difficult students from time to time. It is not a reflection on you. Utilize them as it will help you to establish yourself in the classroom, but also will help admin see if you are struggling with certain students so they can help you early on. 

17. Don’t underestimate the value of building personal connection with your students: When the load of admin and lesson planning gets hard, having positive relationships with your students can be the one thing you need to get you through the day. Building these relationships on mutual respect is the best way to also help you manage behaviour and discipline in the classroom.

top tips for first year teachers

 

Helpful blog posts for first year teachers: 

– 13 kickass classroom management strategies

– 33 Top tips for beginning teachers

– 49 time saving hacks for teachers

 

Some resources to help you:

– substitute teacher lesson plans

– early finisher activities

– beginning teacher professional development

– differentiation professional development

top tips for first year teachers

Conclusion

The most important thing for first year teachers is to remember that you as a person need to come first. Sometimes this means a lesson isn’t prepared to the same detail you would like to. And that is OK!  

While there is no replacement for teaching experience, these tips for first year teachers will give you a head start in being able to begin your career in the right way.

You are going to make a real difference in your students’ lives, but make sure it isn’t at the expense of your own personal life and mental health. 

top tips for first year teachers

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10 tools to help teachers check for chat gpt and ai use

10 tools to help teachers check for chat gpt and ai use

by | Aug 19, 2024 | Blogging, Teacher Tips & Hacks

10 tools to help teachers check for chat gpt and ai use

With the rapid growth of online content sees the rise of ai-generated content and artificial intelligence, it is important to be able to detect ai written content in student submission of work. The use of chatgpt in middle and high school settings has grown astronomically, making it harder for teachers to determine student understanding and whether they have used an ai writing tool. 

 

In this blog post we will introduce 10 tools teachers can use to check for chat gpt and ai use in student work.

check for chat gpt

What is an AI detector?

An AI detector is a tool or system designed to identify whether a piece of content—such as text, images, audio, or video—was generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence. These detectors employ various techniques to analyze and recognize patterns or anomalies indicative of AI-generated content. 

Using an AI detector can help teachers determine the authenticity of a student submission to mitigate issues such as plagiarism.

 

How do AI detectors work?

 AI-generated content often has distinct patterns or inconsistencies that can be detected using statistical methods and machine learning. AI detectors use advanced algorithms to pick up these inconsistencies by monitoring unusual patterns in the creation or distribution of content. 

 

Things to consider when using an ai text detector:

1. False positives: Ensuring accurate results in detection is challenging, with the risk of incorrectly identifying human-generated content as AI-generated and vice versa. Using an AI detector is not always a reliable way to check.

2. Evasion Tactics: As AI detection software improves, AI tools and AI technology also evolve to evade detection, leading to a continuous arms race. The ability for AI to produce human-like text is amazing, but obviously poses continual problems for educators trying to gauge the authenticity of student writing. In the near future it may become near impossible to detect.

 

The best ways to detect for AI-written content is by using an AI detector alongside knowing your students and their regular writing voice and sentence structure to determine whether it is the student’s own work.

 

How can teachers use an AI content detector:

Teachers can use AI detectors to ensure the integrity and originality of student work, particularly in academic settings where there is a growing concern about students using AI tools to generate essays, reports, and other assignments. They are also a great tool to use with your students to demonstrate and educate students on academic integrity and encourage the development of original content. While AI continues to pull information from many sources, the intellectual property is in an AI-written text is always questionable.

10 tools to check for chat gpt and ai use

 

10 AI detecting tools to help teachers check for chat gpt and ai use

 

The following are the best ai detection tools for educators:

Note: depending on the length of the text, most of these websites provide a Free AI detector for a certain word count. 

 10 tools to check for chat gpt and ai use

1. Turnitin – Well-known for plagiarism detection, Turnitin has integrated features to detect AI-generated content. This is commonly used in university to check academic papers, and also in high school settings. 

2. Grammarly – Primarily a grammar checker, Grammarly also offers some AI detection capabilities in its premium versions.

3. Copyleaks – Provides AI content detection alongside traditional plagiarism detection.

4. Unicheck – An academic integrity tool that includes AI text detection in its features.

5. GPTZero – Specifically designed as a reliable chatgpt detector tool to detect chatgpt-generated text by AI models like GPT-3.

6. Content at Scale AI Detector – A free tool for detecting AI-generated content.

7. Sapling.ai – Offers AI writing assistance and detection of AI-generated text as an ai plagiarism checker.

8. Originality.AI – A plagiarism and AI detection tool tailored for web publishers and academic institutions.

9. Writer.com AI Content Detector – Helps identify AI-generated content in various types of text.

10. Crossplag – Another plagiarism detection tool that can check for chat gpt and AI content.

10 tools to check for chat gpt and ai u

 

Conclusion

These tools vary in their features and capabilities, so it’s worth exploring a few to find the one that best meets your needs. If you have large projects or regular projects you need to check, it may be worth paying for a suitable subscription.

 

I hope these tools help for you to check for chat gpt and AI use in your classes.

10 tools to check for chat gpt and ai use

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Katrina is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

See the quality and browse her best selling resources below on either The Animated Teacher website or on Teachers Pay Teachers:

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49 Best time management tips for teachers

49 Best time management tips for teachers

by | Jul 27, 2024 | Blogging, Teacher Tips & Hacks

49 Best time management tips for teachers

What is the one thing teacher’s never have enough of? Time. Well also pay – but let’s not go there right now. The importance of time management is not to be underestimated or undervalued as a teacher. Managing your time as a teacher is an essential skill to ensure the longevity of your career and the protection of your mental and physical health. If you have the right time management tips for teachers, then you can ensure your own well-being is not sacrificed by your job.

Teaching is a demanding profession that requires educators to wear many hats. From lesson planning and grading to engaging with students and collaborating with colleagues, managing time effectively is crucial for success in the classroom. There is never enough time, and often it is hard to determine what the best use of time is at any given moment. Good time management is essential for teachers to be able to cope with the demands of the job and find a work-life balance that suits each individual.

The beginning of the school year is a great time to reflect on your processes and determine how you might be able to set clear goals in terms of time management so that your school day doesn’t bleed into your personal life. 

So grab a coffee and sit back and relax while we explore 49 time management tips for teachers.

Time management tips for teachers

a white alarm clock next to a notebook and pen<br /> 49 time management tips for teachers

Effective time management tips for teachers

As school teachers, we know the work day doesn’t have enough hours in it to get everything done. So it is even more important that you build your practical time management skills to ensure the effective use of your time. Here are 49 time management tips for teachers:

 

  1. Prioritize Tasks: Identify the most important tasks and prioritize them. Focus on essential tasks first to ensure essential responsibilities are met.
  2. Create a To-Do List: Develop a daily or weekly to-do list to keep track of tasks and stay organized. Check off items as you complete them.
  3. Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable goals for each day, week, and month. Realistic goals prevent overwhelm and boost productivity.
  4. Time Blocking: Allocate specific blocks of time to different tasks. This helps create a structured routine and prevents multitasking.
  5. Limit Multitasking: Multitasking can decrease overall efficiency. Concentrate on one task at a time to improve focus and quality of work. There is a lot of time lost in the process of task switching constantly and the mental load is also greater than just focusing on one task at a time.
  6. Use Technology Wisely: Leverage technology tools for lesson planning, grading, and communication. Platforms like Google Classroom or Microsoft Teams can streamline tasks. Utilize it to schedule out emails and class tasks so you can do them when suits you without disrupting others at an inconvenient time.
  7. Automate Repetitive Tasks: Identify tasks that can be automated, such as sending regular updates or setting recurring reminders.
  8. Utilize Planning Periods: Maximize planning periods for lesson preparation and grading. Use this time efficiently to reduce workload after school hours.
  9. Batch Similar Tasks: Group similar or specific tasks together to streamline efficiency. For instance, grade papers in one sitting or plan lessons for the week in a single session. This limits the amount of time wasted by switching between tasks and helps you get things done in less time. Time management tips for teachers
  10. Learn to Say No: Recognize your limits and politely decline additional responsibilities when necessary. Prioritize your well-being. Yes of course you need to meet your contractual obligations, but if you are asked to go above and beyond that – it is ok to say no or ‘not at this time’.
  11. Delegate When Possible: If you have support staff or can collaborate with colleagues, delegate tasks to share the workload. This could even include students if it includes keeping your classroom organised etc.
  12. Effective Communication: Clearly communicate expectations and deadlines to students and colleagues. This helps everyone stay on the same page.
  13. Take your Breaks: Use your breaks to actually have a break. It is important that you eat through the day and have some time to recharge.
  14. Reflect and Evaluate: Regularly assess your time management strategies. Identify what works well and make adjustments as needed.
  15. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid taking work home at the end of the day whenever possible.
  16. Use Templates: Develop templates for lesson plans, assessments, report writing, and other documents to save time on repetitive tasks. Even email responses to parents you can simplify by having some templates available.  You may also like this blog post ‘11 FREE editable templates for teachers‘.
  17. Limit Email Time: Allocate specific time slots for checking and responding to emails. Avoid constant interruptions throughout the day by turning off your email notifications.
  18. Invest in Professional Development: Stay updated on the latest teaching methods and tools. Continuous learning can enhance your efficiency in the long run and keep you motivated in the profession.
  19. Collaborate with Colleagues: Share resources and collaborate with fellow teachers. Working together can save time and improve the quality of teaching and share resources so you aren’t all wasting time creating the same thing.
  20. Embrace Technology-Free Zones: Designate specific times or areas where technology is not allowed to encourage focused work or relaxation. This could be done during class time or your own personal time. Time management tips for teachers

Time management tips for teachers continued…

21. Use Reminders: Set reminders for important deadlines and tasks. This can help prevent last-minute rushes.

22. Encourage Student Independence: Foster a sense of responsibility in students, encouraging them to take ownership of their learning, which can reduce your workload.

23. Don’t set homework: It is not always necessary and setting homework assignments only adds to your workload. Don’t set it to save you time by not needing to check or mark it.

24. Stay Healthy: Prioritize self-care, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep. A healthy teacher is a more effective teacher.

25. Mindfulness and Meditation:Incorporate mindfulness practices into your routine to reduce stress and improve focus.

26. Use Visual Aids: Visual tools like calendars, charts, sticky note, and planners can enhance organization and time management.

27. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement can boost motivation.

28. Utilize a Centralized Calendar: Maintain a single calendar for all your appointments, deadlines, and events. This prevents scheduling conflicts and helps you stay organized.

29. Use color-coding: In calendars and to-do lists it can be very helpful to have a color coding system to help you prioritise and organise your events and tasks.

30. Create a Grading System: Develop a consistent and efficient grading system. This could include using rubrics or providing feedback during specific time slots.

31. Use Checklists for Routine Tasks: For routine tasks like setting up the classroom or collecting homework, create checklists to ensure nothing is overlooked.

32. Implement a two-Minute Rule: If a task takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. This prevents small tasks from piling up.

33. Establish a Morning Routine: Develop a consistent morning routine to set a positive tone for the day. This could include reviewing the day’s schedule, checking emails and setting priorities.

34. Schedule Buffer Time: Allow for buffer time between tasks to account for unexpected interruptions or delays.

35. Use headphones: Block out interruption in the staff room by using noise cancelling headphones.

36. Adopt a Growth Mindset: Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. A positive mindset can contribute to better time management.

37. Explore Time-Tracking Apps: Use time-tracking apps to monitor how you spend your time. This awareness can lead to more informed adjustments in your schedule.

38. Set Personal Deadlines: Establish personal deadlines ahead of official ones. This creates a buffer for unforeseen circumstances.

39. Create a Resource Library: Develop a digital or physical resource library with materials and lesson plans that can be reused or adapted in the future.

40. Engage in Physical Activity: Incorporate short bursts of physical activity into your day to boost energy levels and focus. Time management tips for teachers

Time management tips for teachers

More time management tips for teachers…

41. Limit Social Media Use: Set specific times for checking social media to prevent it from becoming a constant distraction.

42. Establish a Homework Collection System: Streamline the process of collecting and returning homework to save time and maintain organization.

43. Use Mind Mapping for Planning: Visualize your lesson plans and ideas using mind maps. This can enhance creativity and clarity in your teaching approach.

44. Set Clear Learning Objectives: Clearly define learning objectives for each lesson to stay focused on essential content and activities. This helps you decide quickly whether activities are going to be helpful in a lesson or just be busy work.

45. Rotate Classroom Responsibilities: Share classroom responsibilities with students to foster a sense of community and lighten your workload.

46. Designate a Clean-Up Routine: Allocate time at the end of each day for a quick clean-up of your workspace and classroom to start the next day with a fresh slate.

47. Develop a System for Paperwork: Establish a system for managing paperwork efficiently, such as color-coded folders or digital filing. If you prefer digital systems then look at using a note-taking app and organise your Google drive folders to streamline your online filing.

48. Collaborate on Lesson Planning: Collaborate with fellow teachers to share lesson planning responsibilities, allowing for diverse perspectives and shared workload.

49. Have a daily routine: know exactly what you are going to do and when you are going to do it. Are you going to check your emails first thing in the morning? Or after the day? When are you going to do photocopying? Having a set time for your daily habits is helpful so you don’t waste time figuring out what to do next – its already decided for you! This also helps remove some of the mental fatigue as it becomes repetitive practice you won’t need to think about it.

Time management tips for teachers

Conclusion

Working towards developing excellent time management skills as a teacher is a great way to back yourself. It will have long-term gains for you and ensure you are able to tackle the day to day without being in constant fight or flight mode.

Make sure you share these time management tips for teachers with your teaching bestie!

Time management tips for teachers

classroom management strategies for high school

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Katrina is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

See the quality and browse her best selling resources below on either The Animated Teacher website or on Teachers Pay Teachers:

Shop on website
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13 kickass classroom management strategies for high school

13 kickass classroom management strategies for high school

by | May 29, 2024 | Teacher Tips & Hacks

13 kickass classroom management strategies for high school

As a teacher, one of the biggest challenges can be the disruptive behavior of students in our classrooms. Some days it can feel like you are herding cats, while other days it can feel like you’re stuck in the world of Jurassic Park or Jumanji. 

Not only can this make our job difficult and unenjoyable, it can also disrupt the learning opportunities of other students. 

But don’t fear – In this blog post I will give you 13 kickass classroom management strategies for high school students to help you keep the peace and keep your sanity intact.

 

via GIPHY

classroom management strategies for high school

Why is classroom management strategies for high school teachers important?

Now, I know what you might be thinking. “But why is it such a big deal? Can’t I just wing it?” Trust me, as someone who’s been there, winging it can sometimes feel like stepping into a lion’s den wearing a suit made of steak. It’s not pretty.

So, why exactly is having a plan for classroom management strategies for high school so important? Let me break it down for you:

1. Smooth Sailing: Picture this: you walk into your classroom, armed with enthusiasm and a boatload of knowledge to impart. But oh no, chaos erupts! Students are chatting away, papers are flying, and you’re left wondering if you accidentally stepped into a reality TV show (and not the good kind).

A good classroom management plan helps prevent this chaos from ever happening. It sets clear expectations for behavior and routines, creating an environment where learning can thrive without disruptions.

 

2. Respect: Respect is a two-way street, my friends. By establishing consistent rules and consequences, you’re showing your students that you respect them enough to hold them to high standards. And in return, they’ll (hopefully) respect you enough to follow those rules. It’s a beautiful cycle of mutual respect that forms the foundation of a positive classroom culture.

 

3, Time: Time is precious, especially in the classroom. Every minute spent wrangling unruly high schoolers is a minute stolen from valuable teaching and learning time. A well-oiled classroom management plan ensures that time is spent where it matters most: on engaging lessons and meaningful interactions with students.

classroom management strategies for high school 

4. Support: Let’s face it, high school can be tough. There’s pressure from all directions – academics, social life, extracurriculars, you name it. A good classroom management plan doesn’t just focus on discipline; it also creates a supportive environment where students feel safe to express themselves and ask for help when they need it. It’s like having a safety net woven from mutual understanding and empathy.

 

5. Sanity: Teaching is hard enough as it is. You’ve got a million things on your plate – lesson planning, grading, meetings, the list goes on. The last thing you need is to spend your days battling classroom chaos. A solid management plan provides structure and consistency, giving you the peace of mind to focus on what you do best: inspiring young minds.

classroom management strategies for high school 

13 kickass classroom management strategies for high school

1. Set Clear Expectations from Day One

Picture this: it’s the first day of school, and you walk into your classroom radiating confidence. You lay down the law (in a friendly way, of course) and let your students know exactly what you expect from them. Whether it’s about participation, homework deadlines, or respecting others, make sure you set clear rules. This sets the tone for the entire school year.

For new teachers this is even more important as you don’t yet have your reputation to preceed you. These are students you’ve never taught before and so they are going to want to figure out exactly where you stand in regard to discipline and behavior management.

This doesn’t mean you can’t include your students in setting classroom rules. This is a classroom management strategy some teachers use to help students take ownership over their behavior in the classroom. If this is a strategy you would like to use, then make sure you also have your non-negotiable rules included as well.

classroom management strategies for high school  

2. Use a seating plan

A seating plan is a good classroom management tool to use as it is a really clear depiction of the authority you have in the room which is recognised instantly by students.

While I like to get my classroom to the point I don’t use a seating plan, I often start the year with is as another tool to help create an orderly classroom while I also get to know the class dynamics (plus learn names!)

 

3. Be Consistent

Consistency is key. Once you’ve established those expectations, stick to them like glue. If you let things slide one day and crack down the next, you’ll confuse your students and that is when chaos can fester.

classroom management strategies for high school  

4. Use Positive Reinforcement 

Who doesn’t love a little pat on the back every now and then? Shower your students with praise when they meet (or exceed) your expectations in regard to positive behavior. It could be a simple “great job” or a high-five on their way out the door. Positive reinforcement not only boosts morale but also encourages good behavior to become a habit.

You may like my blog post on 6 ways to use positive reinforcement.

 

5. Get to Know Your Students on a Personal Level

Of all the classroom management strategies for high school, I have found this to be the most effective.

Forget the stereotype of the distant, unapproachable teacher. Take the time to really get to know your students beyond their test scores. Learn your students’ names (bonus points if you can pronounce them correctly), ask about their interests, and show genuine care for their well-being. 

When students feel seen and valued, they’re more likely to respect you and your rules and it positively impacts student learning. 

Building strong relationships with students will also make your job much more enjoyable. You are going to be around these middle school students or high school students every day – it helps if you like them! 

The research is very clear that positive teacher-student relationships has a huge impact on student learning. 

You may like my blog post on 5 ways to build positive relationships with students.

 

6. Keep Lessons Engaging

Let’s face it, nobody wants to sit through a boring lesson. Keep things moving and interactive to hold your students’ attention.

Incorporate group work, hands-on projects, and multimedia resources to spice things up and promote active participation.

 

7. Address Misbehavior Swiftly and Privately

When you spot a misbehaving student or a hint of declining student behavior, nip it in the bud before it spreads like wildfire. 

Pull them aside for a quick chat and address the issue calmly but firmly. Listen to their side of the story and work together to find a solution. This shows that you’re approachable and fair, but also no-nonsense when it comes to maintaining order.

Doing this privately also allows students to feel heard without being embarrassed in front of the whole class. There may be more going on behind the surface than just the behavior you witness.

 

8. Use Humor Wisely

You may not normally think of this when you think about classroom management strategies for high school. But for high school teachers, a well-timed joke or a witty comment can work wonders for defusing tension in the classroom.

Remember, humor is like salt in your cooking—too much, and you’ll ruin the dish. Keep it light and appropriate, and always be mindful of your students’ feelings. A little laughter goes a long way in building rapport with your class.

classroom management strategies for high school

9. Create an Inclusive Environment

Every student deserves to feel safe and welcome in your classroom, regardless of their background or beliefs. Take proactive steps to foster inclusivity and celebrate diversity. Set ground rules against bullying and discrimination, and lead by example in treating everyone with respect and empathy. 

While building a positive classroom environment may take some time, starting out with these clear ground rules will help students to know that you are interested in making sure it is a positive learning environment for everyone.

When students feel accepted for who they are, and feel they have a safe space in the classroom, they’re more likely to thrive academically and socially.

classroom management strategies for high school 

10. Offer Choices

Nobody likes being told what to do all the time. Give your students a sense of autonomy by offering choices whenever possible. Whether it’s picking their own seat, selecting from a list of project topics, or deciding how to demonstrate their understanding, letting students make decisions empowers them to take ownership of their learning.

 

11. Communicate with Parents

Keep the lines of communication open with parents or guardians. They’re your allies in this crazy journey called education, so don’t be afraid to reach out when necessary.

Whether it’s to share good news, address concerns about inappropriate behavior, or collaborate on solutions, involving parents in their child’s education strengthens the support network and reinforces the importance of teamwork.

 

12. Always welcome students at the door with a smile

High school classrooms can be a daunting place for students. By greeting students at the door with a smile, they will feel welcome and your smile may ease any tension or anxiety they have about coming in. If students feel that you are in a good mood, they are more likely to relax which will allow their brains to learn. 

classroom management strategies for high school  

13. Use non-verbal cues and move around the room

Even though I left this til last, it is actually one of the best classroom management strategies and also the least disruptive. A stern look, a raised eyebrow, a slight shake of the head or a simple gesture can get a student to change their behavior in an instant without ruining the flow of the lesson. 

Additionally, never underestimate the power of proximity.  Don’t teach the entire class from the front of the class. Be present in the classroom by moving around your students. It’s amazing how behavior issues can dissolve as you walk towards a particular student, or just a simple tap on the desk can bring a student back to focus. 

classroom management strategies for high school 

Conclusion

These 13 successful classroom management strategies for high school will help you gain and keep control of your classroom.

Remember, be patient and stay flexible as you find what works best for you and your students. 

classroom management strategies for high school

the animated teacher logo

Katrina is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

See the quality and browse her best selling resources below on either The Animated Teacher website or on Teachers Pay Teachers:

Shop on website
Shop on TPT

50 healthy teacher snack ideas for busy teachers

50 healthy teacher snack ideas for busy teachers

by | May 14, 2024 | Teacher Tips & Hacks, Wellbeing

50 healthy teacher snack ideas for busy teachers

Let’s face it—teaching is a demanding gig. Between wrangling students, grading papers, and writing lesson plans, it’s easy to forget about taking care of ourselves during the school day. 

But fear not! I’ve got your back with 50 delicious and nutritious, healthy teacher snack ideas to keep you fuelled and focused throughout the day. 

So grab a coffee and relax while I give you some scrumptious healthy teacher snack ideas to get you through the day.

healthy teacher snack ideas

healthy teacher snack ideas healthy teacher snacks

What types of snacks should teachers be eating?

As a teacher who is on their feet all day and who needs to keep their brain working at a high capacity, it is important to fuel your body and brain appropriately.

Your snacks through the day (also supported by a good lunch – check out my teacher lunch ideas here) should contain the right ingredients to support and not drain your body through the day.

Try to eat healthy snacks that have a good source of protein, low GI carbs and healthy fats. Avoid high sugar foods that will hit you with a sugar low later on.

Good snacks can be an absolute game change in terms of your energy levels (or hangry levels) throughout the day.

healthy teacher snack ideas

What school snacks should teachers avoid?

First, it is important to note that many of your students and fellow colleagues may have food allergies you need to be aware of. Your school might even have a policy that restricts food groups for you to bring in e.g. food containing nuts. Make sure you check these before stocking up on your favorite snacks!

Second, sugary food. I feel a particular pull towards junk food at the end of the school year. However, this is the time it is most important to try and stick to healthy eating choices or we will end up feeling more tired and run down.

The good news is there are plenty of foods you can have that will satisfy your sweet tooth without also ruining your energy levels.

healthy teacher snack ideas

50 healthy teacher snack ideas for busy teachers

  1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Scoop some Greek yogurt into a cup, add a handful of berries, and sprinkle with granola for a satisfying blend of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. I also love to add a sprinkle of coconut flakes or dessicated coconut to mine too.
  2. Trail Mix: Mix together nuts (if allowed – or leave these out), seeds (e.g. sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds), dried fruit, and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips for a crunchy, energy-boosting snack. You can pre pack these in individual bags for each day of the week.
  3. Hard-Boiled Eggs: Prep a batch of hard-boiled eggs at the beginning of the week for a protein-packed snack on the go.
  4. Whole Grain Crackers with Hummus: Spread some hummus on whole grain crackers for a tasty combo of complex carbs and plant-based protein. Alternatively, make your own guacamole dip.
  5. Cheese and Whole Grain Crackers: Pair your favorite cheese with whole grain crackers. If you’re feeling fancy add some deli meat too.
  6. Cottage Cheese on raisin toast: Top a scoop of cottage cheese on raisin toast for a filling snack.
  7. Turkey Roll-Ups: Wrap slices of turkey around cheese sticks or cucumber spears for a quick and protein-rich snack.
  8. Avocado Toast: Mash up some avocado and spread it on whole grain toast for a deliciously creamy snack loaded with healthy fats.
  9. Veggie Sticks with Guacamole: Dip crunchy veggie sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers into creamy guacamole for a nutritious and satisfying snack.
  10. Edamame: Snack on steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt for a protein-packed treat that’s as fun to eat as it is nutritious.
  11. Chia Pudding: Mix chia seeds with your favorite milk and let it sit overnight for a creamy and satisfying snack packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
  12. Rice Cake with Cottage Cheese and Berries: Top a rice cake with cottage cheese and fresh berries for a light and refreshing snack that’s perfect for summer.
  13. Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps: Mix canned tuna with Greek yogurt, diced veggies, and a squeeze of lemon juice, then spoon it into lettuce leaves for a low-carb, high-protein snack.
  14. Rice cake with tinned salmon or tuna: I like to have mine with sliced tomato on top and some cracked pepper.
  15. Quinoa Salad: Whip up a batch of quinoa salad with veggies, beans, and a drizzle of olive oil for a hearty and nutritious snack that’s perfect for meal prep.
  16. Cucumber Slices with Hummus: Use cucumber slices as dippers for hummus for a refreshing and hydrating snack that’s perfect for hot days.
  17. Cherry Tomatoes with Mozzarella Balls: Skewer cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls on toothpicks for a mini caprese salad.
  18. Cottage Cheese with Tomato Slices: Top some crackers with cottage cheese and slices of ripe tomato, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a simple and refreshing snack.
  19. Homemade Energy Balls: If you’ve got more time to prepare some healthy teacher snacks, blend dates, nuts, oats, and a dash of cinnamon in a food processor, then roll into balls for a quick and portable snack that’s perfect for busy days.
  20. Sliced Bell Peppers with Hummus: As far as teacher snack ideas, this is one of the easiest to grab and go. Use sliced bell peppers as dippers for hummus for a crunchy and colorful snack that’s packed with vitamins and minerals.

healthy teacher snack ideas

More healthy teacher snacks

21. Greek Yogurt with Berries and granola: Mix Greek yogurt with fresh berries and top with granola for a creamy, crunchy, and satisfying snack.

22. Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups: Roll slices of turkey around cheese slices for a protein-packed snack that’s perfect for satisfying hunger between meals. Deli meats are a great staple to keep in your fridge as a healthy teacher snack.

23. Roasted Chickpeas: Toss chickpeas with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then roast until crispy for a crunchy and satisfying snack that’s rich in fiber and protein.

24. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Halve bell peppers and fill them with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and salsa for a flavorful and nutritious snack that’s bursting with color. These are great to have prepped the night before so you can just heat them up on the run.

25. Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Toss cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs for a light and refreshing snack.

26. Rice Cake with Avocado and Tomato: Top a rice cake with mashed avocado and sliced tomato for a simple and satisfying snack that’s loaded with healthy fats and fiber.

27. Hummus Stuffed Peppers: Fill mini sweet peppers with hummus for a crunchy and colorful snack that’s perfect for parties or afternoon pick-me-ups.

28. Celery Sticks with tasty cheese: cut thin slices of tasty cheese and eat with celery sticks.

29. Caprese Skewers: Skewer cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella balls on toothpicks for a mini caprese salad that’s perfect for parties or snacking on the go.

30. Chia Seed Pudding with Berries: Mix chia seeds with your favorite milk and top with fresh berries for a creamy and satisfying snack that’s packed with fiber and antioxidants.

31. Cottage Cheese with Peaches: Top cottage cheese with sliced peaches and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and creamy snack that’s perfect for summer.

32. Roasted Edamame: Toss edamame with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then roast until crispy for a crunchy and satisfying snack that’s rich in protein and fiber.

33. Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers: Halve bell peppers and fill them with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and salsa for a flavorful and nutritious snack that’s perfect for meal prep.

34. Greek Yogurt with Mango and Coconut: Mix Greek yogurt with diced mango and shredded coconut for a tropical and satisfying snack that’s perfect for hot days.

35. Apple Slices with Cheese: Pair crisp apple slices with your favorite cheese for a sweet and savory snack that’s perfect for satisfying mid-afternoon cravings.

36. Carrot Sticks with Hummus: Use carrot sticks as dippers for hummus for a crunchy and satisfying snack that’s perfect for satisfying hunger between meals.

37. Turkey and Avocado Wrap: Spread mashed avocado on a whole grain tortilla, add sliced turkey, and roll it up for a portable and satisfying snack that’s perfect for busy days.

38. Rice Cake with Banana and maple syrup: Top a rice cake with cottage cheese, sliced banana and a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and satisfying snack that’s perfect for satisfying mid-afternoon cravings.

39. Quinoa Salad with Avocado and Tomato: Toss cooked quinoa with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a light and refreshing snack that’s perfect for summer.

40. Protein bars: Ditch the candy bar and granola bar and grab a handful of protein bars to keep your desk drawer stocked for those days you forget to bring something or have little time to eat. These are also great to add alongside a piece of fruit like a green apple to add that little bit extra protein and keep you fuller.

healthy teacher snack ideas

More healthy teacher snack ideas

41. Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Toss pumpkin seeds with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then roast until crispy for a crunchy and satisfying snack that’s perfect for fall.

42. Cream cheese and smoked salmon on pikelets: If you’re wanting something a little decadent, opt for some pikelets with cream cheese and smoked salmon. Add capers or cracked pepper to feel like you’re in a cafe!

43. Dill pickle and ham: dill pickles are an easy snack to keep in the fridge at work. Add some ham or deli meat for a high protein, low-carb snack.

44. Pasta salad: Whip up a pasta salad to have for a filling snack. This is one of the best healthy teacher snacks to make a batch of for the week.

45. Peanut butter on rice cakes: if you’re allowed to have nuts then peanut butter is a great staple to have on hand at work. Add it to rice cakes or banana.

46. Protein shake: Protein shakes are super easy to make in a short amount of time. Just add water, or if you have a blender, add your favorite berries and fruit to make a protein smoothie.

47. Popcorn and cheese cubes: these actually are a great snack if you like dairy products and are short on time.

48. Nutella and strawberries on a bagel: If you are wanting a sweet treat, these are a perfect snack to have with your afternoon coffee.

49. String cheese and fruit cups: If you’re really desperate and have kids, you may need to raid their lunch box snacks! But honestly, these are an easy snack to grab and eat on the go.

50. Sushi Rolls: Slice cucumbers lengthwise into thin strips and fill them with ingredients like cream cheese, smoked salmon, avocado, and carrots. Roll them up for a refreshing and healthy snack.

 

And there you have it—50 healthy and delicious healthy teacher snack ideas to keep you fuelled and focused throughout your busy days as a teacher. Whether you’re in need of a quick pick-me-up between classes or a satisfying snack to fuel your late-night grading sessions, these tasty treats have got you covered. So go ahead, stock up on your favorites, and snack your way to success! 🍎🥑🥒

 

Conclusion

My personal favorite healthy teacher snack ideas are the cream cheese and smoked salmon on pikelets, turkey and cheese roll-ups, and avocado toast.

Make sure you send these healthy teacher snack ideas to your work bestie!

 

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Katrina is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

See the quality and browse her best selling resources below on either The Animated Teacher website or on Teachers Pay Teachers:

Shop on website
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How much should teachers charge for tutoring?

How much should teachers charge for tutoring?

by | May 1, 2024 | Teacher Tips & Hacks

How much should teachers charge for tutoring?

Private tutoring sessions are a great way for you to earn some extra money while also sharing your passion for learning and making a real difference in students’ lives. But how do you determine how much you should charge for tutoring? There are various factors to take into consideration when settling on a price to charge for tutoring such as your level of experience, subject matter, age of students, and length of sessions. 

So, let’s dive in and find out how much should teachers charge for tutoring?

how much should teachers charge for tutoring?

Benefits of Tutoring for qualified teachers

Qualified teachers are in high demand for private tutoring for primary school, middle school, high school, and college students.

Tutoring is a great side gig for teachers as it offers flexibility, choice, and allows you to work one-on-one with students, providing personalized attention and tailored instruction that can lead to significant academic growth. And let’s not forget the financial aspect—tutoring can be a lucrative side hustle, providing a welcome boost to your bank account.

 How much should teachers charge for tutoring?

Considerations Before Starting

Before you jump headfirst into tutoring, there are a number of factors to consider. It is important that you have a clear pricing structure to communicate with potential clients. 

  • Subject Area: First and foremost, think about your areas of expertise and the subjects you feel most comfortable teaching. Are you a math whiz, a grammar guru, or a history buff? Identifying your strengths will help you target the right student demographic and ensure that you’re providing quality instruction.
  • Availability and scheduling: Next, think about your availability and scheduling preferences. How many hours per week can you dedicate to tutoring? Are you willing to travel to students’ homes or prefer to host sessions in a designated location? How much travel time do you need to allow? By mapping out your availability and preferences in advance, you can streamline the tutoring process and attract students who align with your schedule.
  • Boundaries and Expectations: Another crucial consideration is setting boundaries and expectations. Clearly communicate your tutoring policies regarding cancellations, rescheduling, and payment methods upfront to avoid any misunderstandings down the line. Additionally, establish realistic goals and objectives for each tutoring session to keep both you and your students on track.
  • Location: Do you have an appropriate space to tutor in for students to come to you? Or do you need to utilise a public library or space to use instead? Will you be travelling to the student’s place?

 

 How much should teachers charge for tutoring?

How much should teachers charge for tutoring?

Now, let’s tackle the million-dollar question: how much should teachers charge for tutoring?

Unfortunately there is no average hourly rate for private tutors or set amount for what should teachers charge for tutoring, as it depends on a variety of factors.

Setting your rates can be a bit tricky, but fear not—we’ve got you covered.

When determining your rates, consider the following:

 

1. Research: Start by researching what the average rate tutors in your area are charging for similar services. Average tutoring rates will help give you an idea for what locals are willing to pay for this type of service.

 

2. Your Education level: Additionally, consider factors such as your education level and formal qualifications, teaching experience, and any specialized certifications or qualifications you possess. The more credentials you have, the higher prices you can charge for your services.

 

3. Your experience: How many years have you been teaching the subject for as a certified teacher? Have you got experience in formal exam marking? These experiences allow you to charge a higher fee than the average tutoring center who only employ college students without a formal qualification.

 

4. Grade level: high school students should be charged a higher rate than elementary students or younger students due to the complexity of the content.

 

5. Subject area: Some subject areas call for a higher rate than others due to the complexity of the subject matter. For example, a tutor for extension mathematics warrants a higher rate than one for standard or advanced mathematics.

 

6. Format: Think about the format of your tutoring sessions. Individual one-on-one sessions typically command higher rates than small group sessions, as they offer more personalized attention and instruction for the individual students.

 

However, group sessions allow you to work with a number of students simultaneously, potentially increasing your earning potential. For example, you might charge $70/hour for an individual tutoring session, while you might charge $40 per student for an hour and have 3 students in a group session, meaning you would earn $120/hour.

 

When setting rates for small group sessions, consider how many students you’ll be teaching and how much individual attention each one will need. If you’re wrangling a group of five hyperactive fifth-graders, you might not be able to charge as much as you would for a cozy trio of high school seniors studying for the SATs.

 

8. Online or face to face: Additionally, you could consider running online classes. Online tutoring may allow you to reach more students, particularly if you live in a rural area.

 How much should teachers charge for tutoring?

9. Length of sessions: Consider how long your tutoring sessions will go. Will you offer 30 minute sessions? Or 45 minute sessions?

 

10. Package Deals: Will you offer a discount if they sign up for 10 sessions?

 

11. Overhead costs: Finally, don’t forget to factor in your overhead costs, such as transportation expenses and average cost of materials. While it’s essential to remain competitive with your pricing, you also want to ensure that you’re covering your expenses and turning a profit.

 

12. Amount of time to prep: When considering how much should teachers charge for tutoring, and setting your rate, consider how long it is going to take you to prepare for each session. Are you providing the actual learning material or are students just coming in for homework help from school?

 How much should teachers charge for tutoring?

 

Conclusion

So how much should teachers charge for tutoring?

Setting tutoring rates for teachers is a delicate balance between valuing your time and expertise while remaining competitive in the market. By considering factors such as your areas of expertise, availability, and local market rates, you can establish fair and reasonable rates that reflect the value of your services. 

 

So, go forth and unleash your inner professional tutor—you’ve got this!

 How much should teachers charge for tutoring?

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Katrina is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

See the quality and browse her best selling resources below on either The Animated Teacher website or on Teachers Pay Teachers:

Shop on website
Shop on TPT