Summer is a time for kids to relax, explore, and enjoy a well-deserved break from school. While that downtime is important, many parents and teachers wonder what happens to reading skills over the long summer vacation.

The good news is that not every child experiences significant learning loss. Research from NWEA suggests that summer learning varies widely among students. Some maintain or even continue to grow their reading skills, while others may need a little extra support when school begins again. Rather than worrying about "losing everything," it's more helpful to focus on rebuilding strong reading habits during those first few weeks of school.

Whether you're a parent looking for simple ways to support your child or a teacher preparing for a new school year, knowing which reading skills to watch can make all the difference.

1. Phonemic Awareness

Phonemic awareness is the ability to hear and manipulate the individual sounds in spoken words. Although this skill develops before children become readers, it continues to support successful decoding throughout the primary grades.

Teachers often begin the school year by checking whether students can:

• Blend sounds into words
• Segment words into individual sounds
• Identify beginning, middle, and ending sounds
• Add, delete, or substitute sounds

What parents can do:

You don't need flashcards or worksheets to practice phonemic awareness. Play simple word games while driving, cooking, or taking a walk. Ask questions like:

• "What word do you get if you change the /m/ in mat to /s/?"
• "Can you clap the sounds in fish?"
• "What word rhymes with cake?"

These playful conversations build important listening skills that support future reading success.

2. Decoding and Phonics

One of the first things teachers assess is whether students can still apply phonics skills to read unfamiliar words. Strong readers rely on letter-sound relationships rather than guessing.

During the first weeks of school, teachers look for students who can confidently read words with:

• Short vowels
• Digraphs and blends
• Long vowel patterns
• Multisyllabic words (for older students)

What parents can do:

If your child is still learning to read, spend five to ten minutes a few times each week reading decodable books together. Encourage them to sound out unfamiliar words instead of guessing from the pictures. Consistent, short practice is often more effective than occasional long sessions.

3. High-Frequency Words

Automatic recognition of high-frequency words allows children to focus on understanding what they read rather than stopping to decode every word.

When students struggle to recognize these words quickly, reading becomes slow and effortful.

What parents can do:

Review high-frequency words during everyday routines. Write a few words on sticky notes around the house, play memory games, or see how many words your child can recognize while reading together. Keep the activities light and encouraging rather than turning them into a test.

4. Reading Fluency

Reading fluency is more than reading quickly. Fluent readers read accurately, smoothly, and with expression.

Teachers often listen to students read aloud to determine whether they:

• Read accurately
• Maintain an appropriate pace
• Use expression that matches the text

Students who struggle with fluency may have difficulty understanding what they read because so much energy is spent decoding individual words.

What parents can do:

Reading together is one of the best ways to improve fluency. Take turns reading pages aloud, reread favorite books, or let your child practice reading a short passage several times. Hearing fluent reading modeled by an adult helps children develop confidence and expression.

5. Vocabulary and Reading Comprehension

Vocabulary and comprehension continue to grow through meaningful conversations and exposure to rich language.

Some students return to school able to decode well but struggle to explain what they've read. Others understand stories read aloud but need additional support decoding the words on the page.

Teachers quickly gather this information through read-aloud discussions, writing activities, and simple comprehension questions.

What parents can do:

One of the easiest ways to build vocabulary is simply by talking together.

As you cook dinner, visit the park, grocery shop, or explore a museum, introduce new words and explain what they mean. Ask open-ended questions such as:

• "What was your favorite part?"
• "Why do you think that happened?"
• "What do you think will happen next?"

These conversations strengthen language skills that directly support reading comprehension.

Reading Happens Beyond Books

Many families think reading practice only counts if a child is sitting with a chapter book. In reality, children build literacy skills in countless everyday situations.

Encourage your child to:

• Read recipes while cooking
• Follow game directions
• Read menus at restaurants
• Help write grocery lists
• Keep a simple summer journal
• Read signs while traveling
• Write postcards or letters to family members

These authentic experiences help children understand that reading is a valuable life skill—not just something they do at school.

The Goal Isn't Perfection—It's Consistency

As teachers, we know the first few weeks of school are an opportunity to reconnect students with the reading skills they've already learned. Through quick assessments and targeted instruction, we can identify areas that need review and provide the support each child needs.

As parents, remember that you don't need to recreate school at home. A few minutes of reading, talking, writing, and playing with language each day can make a meaningful difference.

Most importantly, help your child discover that reading is enjoyable. When children associate books with curiosity, connection, and success, they're far more likely to continue growing as readers long after summer ends.

Chat Soon-

References

Kuhfeld, M. (2019). Rethinking Summer Slide: The More You Gain, the More You Lose. NWEA.

Kuhfeld, M., & McEachin, A. (2026). Summer Learning Loss: What We Know and What We're Learning. NWEA.

Beach, P., & Crump, H. (2026). Bridging the Summer Gap: A Scoping Review of the Literature on Summer Reading Programs. Reading Research Quarterly.

Walking into your first school year as a special education teacher can feel exciting, overwhelming, emotional, and honestly… a little chaotic.

There are classroom setups all over social media, giant school supply lists, color-coded binders, and endless “must-have” recommendations. It can quickly feel like you need to buy and prep everything before students walk through the door.

You do not.

As special education teacher, I have learned that the things that matter most during back-to-school season are not usually the flashy ones. The most valuable tools are the systems, routines, and supports that help you survive the first few months without burning out.

If you are a new special education teacher, here is what you actually need heading into the school year.

1. You Need Simple Systems—Not Perfection

One of the biggest mistakes new teachers make is trying to create the perfect classroom before they even know their students.

Instead of focusing on perfection, focus on systems.

You need:

• a place for paperwork
• a simple data collection method
• organized intervention materials
• a manageable schedule
• clear student routines

That is it.

Your systems will evolve throughout the year, and honestly, they should. You learn what works once real students are sitting in front of you.

The goal is functionality—not Pinterest perfection.

Example:

“These editable intervention planning tools helped me simplify my small group organization during my first years teaching.”

2. You Need Routines More Than Decorations

Students thrive when routines are predictable.

Especially in special education settings, clear structure reduces:

• anxiety
• behavior issues
• transition difficulties
• cognitive overload

Before worrying about bulletin boards, focus on:

• arrival routines
• group rotations
• where materials go
• how students ask for help
• transition expectations

Students cannot successfully access instruction if they are constantly unsure what comes next.

Simple, repeatable routines matter far more than themed décor.

3. You Need to Accept That You Cannot Do Everything Alone

This one is hard for many new teachers.

Special education is collaborative by nature.

You will work with:

• classroom teachers
• interventionists
• paraprofessionals
• speech therapists
• occupational therapists
• psychologists
• families
• administrators

Trying to carry everything by yourself leads to burnout quickly.

One of the best things you can do is ask questions early and often. Experienced teachers usually remember exactly what it felt like to be new—and many are more willing to help than you think.

4. You Need Materials That Are Reusable

During my first years teaching, I spent way too much time creating new activities every week.

Now I prioritize:

• reusable centers
• adaptable intervention materials
• low-prep games
• editable templates
• skill-based resources

Special education teachers often teach multiple grade levels and skill levels simultaneously. Having flexible resources saves enormous amounts of time.

You do not need hundreds of activities. You need a smaller collection of effective materials you can use repeatedly.

5. You Need to Plan for Student Independence

One of the best investments you can make early in the year is teaching independence.

Many students struggle with:

• executive functioning
• transitions
• organization
• task initiation
• self-monitoring

Visual supports and routines help students become more independent over time.

Some of the most helpful tools include:

• visual schedules
• choice boards
• checklists
• self-monitoring sheets
• “finished work” systems

Teaching independence early saves you countless reminders later.

6. You Need Realistic Expectations About Progress

This may be one of the hardest lessons in special education. Growth is often slower, less linear, and more complex than people expect.

Students may:

• master a skill one day
• struggle the next
• need repeated review
• require different teaching approaches
• make progress in tiny increments

That does not mean you are failing.

Special education teaching requires patience, flexibility, and consistency.

Sometimes the biggest victories are:

• increased confidence
• reduced frustration
• stronger participation
• improved independence
• willingness to try

Those things matter deeply.

7. You Need a “Low-Energy” Backup Plan

There will be weeks when:

• meetings pile up
• paperwork increases
• behaviors intensify
• you are mentally exhausted

Prep backup activities ahead of time.

This could include:

• independent fluency work
• partner games
• review centers
• task boxes
• simple STEM bins
• repeated routines students already know

Having low-prep options ready helps protect your energy and keeps instruction consistent during stressful periods.

8. You Need to Stop Comparing Yourself to Veteran Teachers

Experienced teachers have years of systems, materials, and routines built over time. You are not behind because your classroom does not look like someone with 15 years of experience.

Your first year is about:

• learning systems
• building relationships
• understanding student needs
• finding your teaching style
• surviving and growing

That is enough. You do not need to master everything immediately.

9. You Need to Protect Your Time

Special education teachers often feel pressure to stay late, answer emails constantly, and work through weekends. That pace is not sustainable.

Try to create boundaries early:

• choose one or two priorities each day
• leave some tasks unfinished when necessary
• batch paperwork
• use templates whenever possible
• avoid reinventing materials constantly

Your energy matters too. Burnout helps no one.

New special education teachers do not need perfect classrooms or endless supplies.

They need:

• manageable systems
• consistent routines
• flexible materials
• realistic expectations
• collaboration
• support

Most importantly, they need permission to grow gradually. No teacher has everything figured out during year one. The goal is not perfection. The goal is building a classroom where students feel safe, supported, and capable of learning. Everything else develops over time.

Summer can be a much-needed break for kids and teachers alike. Students need time to play, rest, explore, and simply be children. But for struggling readers, a long break from structured literacy practice can sometimes make the transition back to school more difficult in the fall.

The good news is that summer learning does not need to look like hours of worksheets at the kitchen table.

In fact, some of the best literacy practice happens through short, playful, low-pressure activities woven naturally into everyday life.

As a special education teacher & Auntie, I have found that consistent, low-stress exposure to reading and language skills helps students maintain confidence and prevent frustration when school starts again.

Here are some of my favorite low-prep summer learning ideas for struggling readers.

1. Read for 10 Minutes—But Make It Enjoyable

One of the biggest mistakes families make is trying to recreate school at home during the summer.

Instead of long reading sessions, aim for:

• 10–15 minutes daily
• books at the child’s actual reading level
• rereading favorite books
• reading together
• listening to audiobooks while following along

For struggling readers, confidence matters just as much as skill.

Repeated reading builds:

• fluency
• vocabulary
• automaticity
• comprehension confidence

And honestly? Comic books, joke books, graphic novels, decodables, and silly nonfiction all count as reading.

2. Take Learning Outside

Kids often learn best when movement is involved.

Some easy outdoor literacy ideas include:

• writing sight words with sidewalk chalk
• hopping syllables
• building words with pool noodles
• scavenger hunts for beginning sounds
• reading outside on a blanket
• water balloon letter games

Many struggling readers benefit from multisensory learning opportunities. Movement and play help reduce stress and increase engagement.

3. Keep Practice Short and Predictable

Struggling readers often become overwhelmed by long assignments.

Instead of:

• one hour once a week

Try:

• 10 minutes daily
• consistent routines
• simple expectations
• A predictable rhythm helps children know:
• what to expect
• how long it will last
• when they are finished

This reduces resistance significantly.

For many children, especially those with ADHD, dyslexia, or language-based learning difficulties, shorter practice sessions are far more effective.

4. Practice Reading in Real Life

Literacy is everywhere.

During the summer, encourage kids to read:

• menus
• recipes
• road signs
• grocery lists
• game directions
• maps
• captions
• text messages with support

Real-life reading builds confidence because children see that reading has a purpose beyond school.

One of my favorite strategies is asking children to “help” with everyday tasks:

• finding items in the grocery store
• reading steps in a recipe
• following directions for a game

It feels less like work and more like participation.

5. Rereading Is Not Cheating

Many struggling readers benefit enormously from rereading familiar texts.

When children reread:

• decoding becomes more automatic
• fluency improves
• comprehension increases
• confidence grows

Sometimes parents worry that children should always be reading something new, but familiar books actually support skill development.

This is especially true for:

• decodable texts
• patterned books
• fluency passages
• Product Tie-In Suggestions
• Perfect place for:
• decodable passages
• fluency practice
• repeated reading folders
• partner reading activities

6. Build Language Through Conversation

Strong readers need strong language skills first.

Some of the best summer literacy activities involve:

• storytelling
• asking questions
• discussing books
• describing experiences
• playing pretend
• talking during errands or car rides

Children build vocabulary and comprehension through conversation long before they become strong independent readers.

Simple prompts like:

• “What was your favorite part?”
• “What do you think will happen next?”
• “Why do you think that happened?”

…help develop comprehension naturally.

7. Use Games Whenever Possible

Games reduce anxiety and increase participation.

Some easy literacy games include:

• memory matching
• word hunts
• magnetic letter races
• rhyming games
• “I Spy” beginning sounds
• phonics bingo
• silly sentence building

Children are much more likely to engage when learning feels playful. And for struggling readers who often associate reading with frustration, positive experiences matter tremendously.

8. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Summer learning should support children—not exhaust them.

If a child is:

• frustrated
• shutting down
• avoiding every activity

…it may be time to simplify.

Small moments of successful practice are more valuable than long battles over worksheets. The goal is not perfection. The goal is maintaining confidence, routines, and exposure to literacy.

Struggling readers do not need a Pinterest-perfect summer plan.

They need:

• short practice
• consistency
• encouragement
• engaging activities
• opportunities to feel successful

A few minutes of playful literacy each day can make a meaningful difference when school starts again. And most importantly, summer should still feel like summer.

By the time August rolls around, most teachers are juggling professional development, classroom setup, meetings, schedules, and trying to mentally prepare for a brand-new group of students. As a K–3 special education teacher, I learned quickly that the more I can simplify and organize in June, the smoother my school year starts.

I do not try to do everything over the summer. I want rest too. But there are a handful of things I prep early because they consistently save me stress, decision fatigue, and late-night scrambling once school begins.

If you are already thinking ahead for next year, here are the systems and materials I recommend setting up before August.

1. I Prep My Small Group Materials First

Small groups drive almost everything I do during the school year, especially reading intervention. If I wait until August to organize materials, I end up wasting time searching for passages, games, visuals, and manipulatives.

In June, I:

• sort phonics materials by skill
• organize decodables into bins
• laminate frequently used games
• prep fluency folders
• create grab-and-go intervention tubs

The goal is simple: when I identify student needs, I can immediately pull materials instead of scrambling to create them.

2. I Create Repeatable Routines

One of the biggest mistakes I made early in my career was reinventing routines every week. Now, I intentionally create systems students can learn quickly and repeat independently.

In June, I prep:

• center directions
• visual schedules
• rotation charts
• behavior expectations
• independent work systems

Predictable routines reduce behaviors, increase independence, and make intervention groups run more smoothly. For struggling learners, consistency matters. Students should spend their energy learning content—not figuring out what they are supposed to do next.

3. I Organize My Progress Monitoring Tools

Progress monitoring becomes overwhelming when systems are scattered.

I now prep:

• student data binders
• assessment folders
• ORF tracking sheets
• intervention notes
• IEP goal progress forms

Even simple organization saves enormous amounts of time later.

One thing that helps me most is having a designated place for everything before students arrive. Once the year starts, paperwork multiplies quickly.

4. I Prep for the First Four Weeks—Not the Whole Year

I used to think I needed the entire year planned before school started. I do not anymore.

Instead, I focus on:

• procedures
• routines
• relationship building
• independence
• stamina
• classroom expectations

The first month sets the tone for everything else.

In intervention settings especially, students need:

• emotional safety
• clear expectations
• opportunities for success
• consistent routines

When those pieces are strong, academics become much easier.

5. I Build “Low-Energy” Teacher Days Into My Plans

This may be the most important thing I prep.

Every year there are weeks when:

• meetings pile up
• progress reports are due
• behaviors increase

I am mentally exhausted. So I intentionally prep low-energy activities ahead of time.

That includes:

• partner games
• review centers
• independent fluency work
• simple STEM bins
• reusable practice activities

Having these ready prevents burnout and helps me maintain consistency even during difficult weeks.

6. I Prep Materials That Build Student Independence

One of the best investments I can make is teaching students how to work without needing me every second.

Before the year starts, I prep:

• visual directions
• self-check systems
• quiet help reminders
• finished work bins
• choice boards

This is especially helpful in special education settings where students may struggle with executive functioning, working memory, or transitions. Small independence systems make a huge difference over time.

7. I Leave Space for Flexibility

This took me years to learn. Not every student will need the same supports. Not every intervention group will work exactly as planned. Not every schedule will stay the same. So instead of over-planning, I now focus on building flexible systems.

That means:

• editable schedules
• reusable routines
• adaptable centers
• differentiated materials
• open-ended activities

Flexibility reduces frustration for both teachers and students.

You do not need a perfectly color-coded classroom or an entire year mapped out by July. The best summer prep is the kind that makes your future self’s job easier.

For me, that means:

• organizing intervention materials
• simplifying routines
• prepping reusable systems
• building independence
• reducing decision fatigue

A little intentional prep in June creates a calmer, more manageable start to the school year—and honestly, that matters more than perfection.

Chat soon-

So, you’ve landed your first teaching job—congratulations! Whether you’re fresh out of school or transitioning from another career, stepping into the classroom for the first time is a huge milestone. You’re likely feeling a mix of excitement, nerves, and maybe even a little panic. That’s completely normal. Every teacher remembers the anticipation (and anxiety!) of that first year.

As someone who has been through the highs and lows of a first year in the classroom, I want to share some advice to help you feel more prepared and a little more confident as you head into the school year.

1. Start with Relationships, Not Routines

It’s tempting to focus all your energy on lesson planning, classroom procedures, and getting your bulletin boards Instagram-ready. But here’s the truth: the most important thing you’ll do in the first few weeks is build relationships—with your students, their families, your colleagues, and your support staff.

When students feel safe, valued, and respected, they are far more likely to engage in learning. Spend time getting to know their interests, learning styles, and backgrounds. Greet them by name, listen when they talk, and let them see that you’re a real person who genuinely cares.

Relationships will carry you through tough days and help you build a positive classroom culture that lasts all year.

2. Plan the First Week in Detail—Then Be Flexible

You don’t need to have the entire year planned out before the first day (and honestly, that’s impossible). Instead, focus on planning the first week really well. Think about:

• How you’ll greet students on day one
• What kind of classroom expectations and procedures you’ll teach
• How you’ll give students time to learn about you and each other
• What activities will help build routines and trust

Then, be ready to adjust. Something will go off track—an assembly you weren’t told about, a technology issue, a fire drill during your math block. The best teachers roll with it, adapt, and come back stronger the next day.

3. Set Up Your Classroom for Function, Not Pinterest

Having a cozy, welcoming space matters—but don’t fall into the trap of thinking your room needs to look like a professionally curated Pinterest board on day one. Function over fashion, always.

Start with the basics:

• Desks or tables arranged for collaboration or control (depending on your teaching style)
• Clear, labeled storage for student supplies
• A space to gather as a class (especially in elementary)
• A consistent spot for turning in work, posting schedules, or sharing morning messages

Add decor slowly, and include students in the process. They’ll appreciate contributing to the space, and you’ll have less pressure to do it all alone.

4. Practice Procedures Like You’re Teaching Content

Procedures are what keep your classroom running smoothly. But they aren’t magically understood just because you say them once. Teach them. Practice them. Reinforce them. Repeat.

Whether it’s how to line up, sharpen pencils, ask to go to the bathroom, or transition between subjects—model the procedure, have students practice it, and give feedback.

It might feel repetitive at first, but strong procedures save you so much time and stress down the line. Think of it as investing early so your classroom can run on autopilot later.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

One of the biggest mistakes new teachers make is trying to do it all alone. You are not expected to know everything. Lean on your grade-level teammates, your special education colleagues, your school’s instructional coach, and your custodian (seriously—they’re lifesavers).

Ask questions. Observe others. Find a mentor or buddy teacher. Most teachers are more than happy to share resources and wisdom. You don’t have to prove yourself by suffering in silence.

6. Take Care of You

Teaching is incredibly rewarding—but also emotionally and physically draining. If you aren’t careful, burnout can sneak up fast. Set boundaries from the start. Leave school at a reasonable hour when you can. Make time for things that bring you joy outside of school.

You can’t pour from an empty cup, so taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

7. Celebrate Small Wins

That moment a student finally remembers to raise their hand. When a shy kid shares in class. When your lesson actually goes the way you planned. Celebrate those moments, because they matter.

Your first year will be full of learning curves, but it will also be full of magic. Don’t let the challenges overshadow the progress you and your students are making.

Being a new teacher is hard—but it’s also one of the most powerful and important things you can do. You’re shaping lives, creating safe spaces, and helping kids see their own potential.

You won’t be perfect—and you don’t have to be. What your students need most is a caring adult who shows up, tries their best, and keeps learning right alongside them.

You’ve got this. And you’re not alone. Make sure to grab the freebie below to help you get started this fall.

Chat soon-

PS: Make sure you grab your freebie 

Good Morning, today I'm linking up with Stephanie at "Forever in 5th Grade," to bring you a glimpse into my end of summer planning for my Special Education Resource Room. This year I'll be working with 2nd and 3rd grades. Many of these guys were with me last year. Most of my thinking has been around how I want to strength or change systems I had in place last year like communicating with parents and making it authentic for students.
I was cornered about Spring Break by my wonderful 1st grade team. They wanted dibs on having me at their Summer PD, co-planning, co-teaching--well co--anything!! How could I say no! This is new territory for them as the school is becoming a EL school and they wanted to create a team to move and grow students.  I should mention I love running with them as well. We did the Colfax Relay in May. Yes, all 26 miles.




I send home a monthly newsletter. This idea will help with two things--increase parent communication and two help students to write to an authentic audience.  I'm looking forward to see what they do. They will also be contributing authors on the classroom website. I'm hoping since we use Google Sites this idea will not be all drama and something everyone will see of high value. My team has been talking about creating 1 site and working with grade levels to have a column on their newsletters as well.





One thing that I added to my Data binders was a way for my students' for reflect on and take control of their learning and a perfect way to use it as a Formative Assessment. Last year to used Robert Marzano's Checking for Understanding. This is one of three versions I have in my Teachers pay Teacher store. Even though I'm keeping the same students just a grade older than last year--this version was perfect for them as first and second graders. This is perfect for students to self-assess and reflect on their learning, you can target specific skills they say they are missing or confused or speed up you instruction because they've got it. You can buy it from my store-click on the picture.

Today, I'm linking up with Ashley from Ashley's Brainy Centers for a Back to School Giveaway.

My top 10 must dos for each back-to-school tips I do to emphasize communication, organization, and a focus on student success.

1. Organize all that paperwork
Special educators handle lots of paperwork and documentation throughout the year. Try to set up two separate folders or binders for each child on your case load: one for keeping track of student work and assessment data and the other for keeping track of all other special education documentation.

2. Start a communication log
Keeping track of all phone calls, e-mails, notes home, meetings, and conferences is important. Create a "communication log" for yourself in a notebook that is easily accessible. Be sure to note the dates, times, and nature of the communications you have.

3. Review your students' IEPs
The IEP is the cornerstone of every child's educational program, so it's important that you have a clear understanding of each IEP you're responsible for. Make sure all IEPs are in compliance (e.g., all signatures are there and dates are aligned). Note any upcoming IEP meetings, reevaluations, or other key dates, and mark your calendar now. Most importantly, get a feel for where your students are and what they need by carefully reviewing the present levels of performance, services, and modifications in the IEP.

4. Establish a daily schedule for you and your students
Whether you're a resource teacher or self-contained teacher, it's important to establish your daily schedule. Be sure to consider the service hours required for each of your students, any related services, and co-teaching. Check your schedule against the IEPs to make sure that all services are met. And keep in mind that this schedule will most likely change during the year!

5. Call your students' families
Take the time to introduce yourself with a brief phone call before school starts. You'll be working with these students and their families for at least the next school year, and a simple "hello" from their future teacher can ease some of the back-to-school jitters!

6. Touch base with related service providers
It's important to contact the related service providers — occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech/language therapists, or counselors — in your school as soon as possible to establish a schedule of times for your students who need these services. The earlier you touch base, the more likely you'll be able to find times that work for everyone.

7. Meet with your general education co-teachers
Communicating with your general education co-teachers will be important throughout the year, so get a head start on establishing this important relationship now! Share all of the information you can about schedules, students, and IEP services so that you're ready to start the year.

8. Keep everyone informed
All additional school staff such as assistants and specialists who will be working with your students need to be aware of their needs and their IEPs before school starts. Organize a way to keep track of who has read through the IEPs, and be sure to update your colleagues if the IEPs change during the school year.

9. Plan your B.O.Y. assessments
As soon as school starts, teachers start conducting their beginning of the year (B.O.Y.) assessments. Assessment data is used to update IEPs — and to shape your instruction — so it's important to keep track of which students need which assessments. Get started by making a checklist of student names, required assessments, and a space for scores. This will help you stay organized and keep track of data once testing begins.

10. Start and stay positive
As a special educator, you'll have lots of responsibilities this year, and it may seem overwhelming at times. If your focus is on the needs of your students and their success, you'll stay motivated and find ways to make everything happen. Being positive, flexible, and organized from the start will help you and your students have a successful year.

Ashley from Ashley's Brainy Centers  Back to School Giveaway is live for 24 hours--be sure to get in on the fun and get a $5.00 Teacher pay Teacher Store credit from me and others.

Until next time--