Finding My Rhythm: Reflections on the First Two Weeks Back in the Classroom

Gabby
Aug 24
3 min read

Scroll with "Quest Log: Two Weeks In" surrounded by pencils, stars, coins, and a camera on a brown background, creating a whimsical feel.

Easing Back into the School Year

Last week was a whirlwind, and getting back into the groove of working was exhausting. I didn’t post a blog because I underestimated just how teacher tired I was going to be. The first week back with students is always tough, especially after enjoying summer break and starting this little side quest. I wanted to pause and reflect on these first two weeks back.

Building a Creative Program

I feel so thankful to be growing a program where I get to teach photography, film, digital design, and even podcasting. I wish middle-school-me had access to a class like this since that was exactly the kind of art I loved.

Last school year, almost everything was brand new. Many students didn’t know what to expect, and while some thrived, others just weren’t interested (and that’s okay). This year feels completely different. The incoming sixth graders already knew what they were signing up for and came in genuinely excited. Now that class has started, I can see it in their energy and creativity. The atmosphere has shifted so much from last year, and I can’t wait to teach them new skills.

Early Highlights & Wins

I could write a whole blog just about the highlights, but a few moments stand out. I’ve started building my student-run yearbook team which is a whole new side quest I’m thrilled to explore.

My biggest classroom win so far, though, is the environment we’ve created together. My students feel safe and comfortable in my room. I want them to have 45 minutes a day where they can learn something fun, explore creativity, and just breathe a little. There aren’t many spaces like that, and I’m already seeing how much joy it’s bringing them.

Challenges Along the Way

The hardest part right now is balancing everything from building curriculum for multiple courses and launching a yearbook program. My Year 1 course feels smooth after some summer tweaks, but Year 2 is still a work in progress. Even so, I know this struggle is part of bringing ideas to life, and I’m giving myself grace as I go. Thankfully, my students have adjusted to my routines quickly, which has made things easier.

Routines That Work

One of my favorite classroom systems is the digital currency program I use, called ClassBank. Students have classroom jobs that help keep things running smoothly, and they earn “gold” for doing them well. They can use their gold for items, bonuses, or privileges, but they also have to pay rent and utilities (which, let’s be honest, no one likes).

I introduced this program halfway through last year, so starting from day one this year has been a game changer. My students are motivated, learning real-life skills, and actually having fun with it.

Growing in Confidence After the First Two Weeks Back in the Classroom

These first two weeks back in the classroom have shown me how much I’ve grown as a teacher. Now in my third year, I feel so much more confident in my routines, classroom management, and relationship-building. I’m trying to hold onto that confidence and leave behind the anxiety I used to carry into each new school year.

Overall, I’m excited to see where this year takes us. I can’t wait to see how the yearbook adventure unfolds and what projects my students latch onto. My favorite moments are when they take something we start in class and turn it into a hobby of their own and I already see that beginning to happen!