I’ve taught my whole life, and this almost “Back to School” moment is usually fun and exciting. This year – it’s scary for reasons we wish that it weren’t. But I want to say something to our teachers, faculty, and administrators that you already know: “You Got This.”

Think of all the challenges you’ve overcome in your lifetime in the classroom. Sometimes, just getting to that last bell without a student meltdown or an explosion in the class, is a win.

Take care of each other. Consider joining an online community like TeachersConnect. Talk to one another. Don’t skip the coffee break.

If you’re not going to be on campus, consider setting up a virtual break room or set up a virtual teacher buddy system using an i-pad with a system like Sidekick Video. That way you can still hang out and let off some steam, or make some last-minute lesson plans between classes with your fellow teachers sitting beside you.

Take care of yourselves, and share your story. It’s so important that you show up for yourself, and show up for each other. That you don’t forget your daily inspirational quotes, or inspirational videos.

Megan started a YouTube Channel called “Too Cool for Middle School” – and she’s a middle school History & English teacher who loves talking about lesson plans, classroom organization, and the best strategies to help kids learn.

Take a look at Megan’s YouTube channel if you need some inspiration. For you you to be the best teacher you can be, you need to be there for yourself. Megan just created a great “Back to School” guide here:

Remember all of the students who come up to you at the end of the year and thank you for being their mentor, guide, coach, sage, and of course – teacher. They wouldn’t be where they are today – without you.

Remember all the moments of swapping stories with your colleagues – asking how did you possibly make it through the adventure that was fifth period.
Teachers see joy. Heartbreak. Tragedy. You will have students coming back to class who have lost loved ones or who have themselves been sick. You will be there for them, whether you are in person, or not.

Teachers are lighthouses. You help students see where they are going. You guide, without being directive. You will serve to illuminate the rocky shore at night, when the storm is going strong, so students don’t get lost.

Teachers are hope. You will help your students see that this is not the end. This is the beginning. And while it’s not normal, you’re going to make it feel normal, to the best of your human abilities. You will still tell jokes. You will still call on students. And yeah, there’s going to be tests.

There are lots of resources available to help you get your school year off to an amazing start. You have made it through hard times before. You are doing your best. And you have something special to offer the world.