The Unique Needs of the New Teacher

This workshop is designed to support novice teachers as they navigate the complex challenges of their first years in the classroom. Participants explore the emotional, instructional, and organizational pressures new educators often face, with a focus on practical strategies to foster resilience and professional growth. The session provides concrete methods for establishing a positive classroom culture, structuring effective lesson plans, and leveraging peer and mentor relationships. Reflective practices are emphasized to help teachers continuously improve and meet the evolving needs of their students.

• Feelings of isolation and overwhelm commonly experienced by new teachers
  
  
• Lack of clarity and confidence in lesson planning and classroom management
  
  
• Insufficient support systems and feedback loops to aid in professional growth
  
  
• Difficulty in creating a positive and engaging classroom culture from the start
  
  
• Limited strategies for ongoing reflective practice

1. Creating a Positive Classroom Culture
   Participants will learn to establish clear routines, use student-led classroom contracts, and communicate effectively with families. Emphasis is placed on proactive practices such as accountable talk norms and setting shared expectations to cultivate an inclusive, structured, and respectful learning environment.
   
   
2. Planning and Instructional Frameworks
   Teachers will gain tools for organizing comprehensive lesson plans using models like "I Do, We Do, You Do," and will explore the strategic use of entrance slips, exit tickets, and formative assessment tools. They’ll walk away with a clear framework for developing lessons that engage students and support learning objectives.
   
   
3. Building Support Systems and Reflective Practice
   Attendees will develop strategies to avoid isolation by observing peers, participating in collaborative planning, and maintaining strong relationships with mentors. They will also explore journaling, peer feedback, and student surveys as tools to reflect on and refine their teaching practices throughout the school year.