For teachers, the end of summer brings with it a range of back-to-school emotions. Itâs a very predictable arc. The ups and downs are a trip, am I right? Donât be surprised if you recognize someone you know (ahem, yourself) in this sequence.
Phase 1: Shock
At first you canât even deal with the reality that summer is over and another school year is starting.
Phase 2: Denial
âBut, I havenât climbed that fourteener. I havenât organized all my photos. I havenât gotten my teeth cleaned!â you say.
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Phase 3: Avoidance
Youâve been scouring Pinterest all summer. Youâve come up with a glorious vision for your classroom this year. Youâre just not quite ready to execute.
Phase 4:Â Outrage
I mean, how can you possibly be expected to wear anything but yoga clothes and flip-flops? And wait. How many days of meetings are there before school starts?
Phase 5: Grief
If youâre a crier, like so many of us tender-hearted teachers, the tears will come as you mourn the end of summer.
But then youâll see all the shiny new school supplies at the store and realize you might just be ready to get back into your routine. A tiny glimmer of hope appears.
Phase 6: Anticipation
After all, you love your job, and youâve REALLY missed your students.
Phase 7: Acceptance
And a feeling of readiness and rightness will settle over you.
So youâll dig into your teacher bag, which has been chilling in the back of your car since June, start making plans, and pull your professional wardrobe together as you enter the final phase of back-to-school emotions âŠ
Phase 8: Excitement
And youâre on your way. Youâve got this, teachers!
What excites you most about the upcoming school year? Come and share on our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE!
And, if you havenât quite made it all the way through the emotional arc, read 25 Reasons You Might Be Freaking out Right Now if Youâre a Teacher at the End of Summer Break.