For teachers, the end of summer brings with it a range of back-to-school emotions. It’s a very predictable arc. The ups and downs are a trip, am I right? Don’t be surprised if you recognize someone you know (ahem, yourself) in this sequence.
Phase 1: Shock
At first you can’t even deal with the reality that summer is over and another school year is starting.
Phase 2: Denial
“But, I haven’t climbed that fourteener. I haven’t organized all my photos. I haven’t gotten my teeth cleaned!” you say.
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Phase 3: Avoidance
You’ve been scouring Pinterest all summer. You’ve come up with a glorious vision for your classroom this year. You’re just not quite ready to execute.
Phase 4: 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 you’re a crier, like so many of us tender-hearted teachers, the tears will come as you mourn the end of summer.
But then you’ll 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 you’ve REALLY missed your students.
Phase 7: Acceptance
And a feeling of readiness and rightness will settle over you.
So you’ll 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 …
Phase 8: Excitement
And you’re on your way. You’ve got this, teachers!
What excites you most about the upcoming school year? Come and share on our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE!
And, if you haven’t quite made it all the way through the emotional arc, read 25 Reasons You Might Be Freaking out Right Now if You’re a Teacher at the End of Summer Break.
