Five strategies to set yourself up for success for the next school year—BEFORE you leave for the summer!
Ah, sweet summer break—the light at the end of the long school year. It’s within reach! As tempting as it is to dash for the door and sprint toward the beach and that book you’ve been meaning read, let’s talk about something that can make your return to school way smoother: setting yourself up for success before you leave. A little planning now means less chaos later—and yes, future-you will definitely thank present-you. So grab that last coffee from the teacher’s lounge and let’s dive into a few easy wins that’ll have you starting next year a little more confidently.
Organize and Inventory Instruments & Supplies
For some reason, getting organized for the next school year has always made me less stressed during the summer. Maybe it’s because it’s one thing that I can always control before the school year starts. If this sounds like you, consider taking time to organize and inventory all classroom instruments and supplies to ensure everything is in good condition and ready for the next school year. Clean, repair, and properly store instruments, paying close attention to wear and tear. Carefully take stock of mallets, sticks, recorders, scarves, and other materials, noting anything that is missing or damaged. Create a detailed wish list for replacements or new additions to enhance your music program. Clearly label bins, drawers, and shelves to make locating items easier and to help streamline setup when fall arrives. Organize to your heart’s content!
Reflect and Revise
As tempting as it is to toss this year’s lesson plans to the side and not open them again until you get back, you might want to take some stock of what worked this year—and what didn’t—while it’s fresh in your mind, and how you might repeat that success in the beginning of the year.
Jot down what lessons, units, or classroom routines worked (or didn’t).
Make quick notes on what to tweak, add, or remove.
Save or update digital files in clearly labeled folders.
Create a "Start of Year" folder with go-to activities and plans.
Prep Classroom Decor & Systems
Refresh your classroom environment by prepping decor and systems while ideas are still fresh in your mind. Take down old visuals, then get a head start on creating new ones that will welcome students and support routines from day one. Update posters, daily schedule charts, student job displays, and welcome signage to reflect your goals for the new year. If class lists are available, begin drafting seating charts and gathering materials for procedure visuals to help students quickly learn expectations and feel at home in your space.
Plan First Week Activities
Set yourself up for a smooth and joyful start by choosing a few engaging, low-prep, and inclusive activities for the first week of school. Gather all your materials—music, videos, games—and save them in one easy-to-access spot. Focus on activities that build relationships, encourage collaboration, and set a positive tone for your classroom culture. If you teach a performing ensemble, select one piece to kick off the year—whether it’s a fresh selection or a familiar favorite. Getting students making music right away can be a powerful way to energize your classroom and spark excitement from day one!
Communicate and Collaborate
Before you officially head out, take a few moments to reconnect with the people who make your teaching world go ’round. Touch base with classroom teachers, admins, paraprofessionals, and specialists you’ll be teaming up with again—it’s a great way to keep communication flowing and set the tone for next year. If you’ve got professional goals in mind, now’s the time to suggest or schedule PD that actually feels useful (imagine that!). And don’t forget to send a quick thank-you or wrap-up note to your team or community. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way in building positive vibes and strong connections.
Picking even one or two of these things to do can make a huge world of difference when you come back to school in the fall! Now, go enjoy the summer! You deserve every minute of it!
