I don't know about you but as soon as I hit 4th of July I start thinking about back to school. You know, all the important things like, do my clothes still fit, how many new students will arrive on my caseload and what strengths will the new teachers bring.

Yep, I said it! What strengths will the new teachers bring to my school and offer the students? Like you, I know my credentialing program left a lot unsaid and unknown when it came to teaching. It was my third year before I could remember to take roll every day. (see me shrugging, no idea why) But, new teachers can offer us all a renewed energy to meet the challenges and we can offer them foresight into what the challenges will be.

As a special education teacher, it is my job to get information about students and their special learning needs as soon as possible. If you are in a general education room, you can also reach out to case managers to access this information.

For us veteran teachers the new year is a time to reach out and support new students and teachers alike. Tips like, where the shortest recess bathroom line can be valuable information! But remember, as we touch base with them, we can soak up all the excitement and enthusiasm only a new teacher offers. What are their big plans and dreams? These dreams were once top of mind for us. So, if your clothes fit and you are feeling your worth, pop in to say hi and leave feeling the passion that can keep even the most seasoned of us awake planning for what is to come.

And if your clothes fit - pat yourself on the back. If they don't, like my favorite pair of white jeans . . . there is time. Vegetables are our friend. Enjoy July and I will pop in next week with tricks I have up my sleeve for this next amazing school year.

Be safe and be well, Kimberly