I stood in the cereal aisle at 11:07 a.m. on a Tuesday in July, marveling at the simple joy of grocery shopping when it’s not prime time. No cart traffic jams. No lines stretching into the chip aisle. Just me, my thoughts, and way too many choices for granola. It hit me then—summer suits me. I adapt quickly to the freedom it brings.
By July, I’ve mastered the art of lingering over lunch, making spontaneous Target runs, and enjoying the rare delight of an uninterrupted bathroom break. My classroom is still a part of my summer—I tinker with bulletin boards, browse professional books, and attend trainings—but it all happens on my own time. There’s no bell schedule, no duty schedule, and no one asking if it’s snack time (again) 42 minutes after breakfast.
But now, August is here. The Target aisles have morphed from beach towels to glue sticks, and my phone has started pinging with “back to school” reminders. Cue the familiar, slightly panicked question: Am I ready?
To be honest, it’s a tangled knot of emotions. Sadness that summer’s ease is slipping away. Excitement to meet a fresh group of students. Nervous energy about the new dynamics of the year. And a weird in-between feeling that’s hard to name . . . like being homesick for something you’re about to love again.
The truth is, this transition is always a little messy. Going from freedom to routine isn’t seamless. It takes a bit of recalibration—mentally, emotionally, and definitely in terms of footwear (goodbye, flip-flops; hello, teacher shoes). But just like every other year, once I find my rhythm, it all starts to click. The classroom fills with laughter, routines settle in, and that first “I got it!” moment from a student reminds me exactly why I do this.
So if you’re feeling a bit like me, equal parts ready and not ready, know you’re not alone. You can hold space for both: the joy of summer and the anticipation of a new year. Let yourself ease in.
This week, do one small thing to shift gears: Set up one cozy corner in your classroom, make a playlist for your commute, or treat yourself to your favorite Flair pens. Whatever makes you feel grounded and a little more ready.
We’re in this together. And once that first-day bell rings? You’ll remember how much magic lives in a classroom.
You’ve got this. Let’s do it.
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