Top ten ways new teachers can survive and thrive

10. Set up a communication process with students and parents

Does the district have a policy about class newsletters? Does all communication need to be cleared through the principal? What techniques should be used and what methods are expected in the district?

9. Meetings can have limitations

Regardless of whether the meeting involves administrators, teachers, parents, or students, you do have the right to limit the length of the meeting. If it is scheduled during your preparation time, be sure to never let it extend into the time that you are responsible for students. Students should not be left unattended in a classroom.

8. Know the district discipline policy

Does the district have a specific discipline policy? Is it written in any communication to parents? Does it have steps for including administration in the process? Do you understand the process and has training been offered?

7. Know the district's policy for handling parental complaints

Realize parental complaints will happen. Even if you're named "Teacher of the Year," some parent will probably disagree with a method or technique used in your classroom. Investigate to see if there is a policy for handling phone calls, scheduling meetings, and dealing with upset parents. Know what you need to do before you're faced with it. Knowledge is a key to effectiveness.

6. Know the curriculum policies of the district

Be aware of the procedures for curriculum development and implementation. Be especially aware of the procedures for teaching any science curriculum dealing with human growth and development. Is there a district policy for notification of parents regarding use of materials in the classroom?

5. Establish a support system

If problems arise, seek out help from a teaching partner, someone in your building or hallway, other teachers new to the district, or some other individual who will help "mentor" you. Some districts will assign a "mentor" to you. Be sure that you are able to establish rapport with that individual. If it isn't possible, seek out someone else.

4. Ask for help from other teachers

Don't suffer in silence. If you need help, ask for it and don't feel like you're a failure because you need assistance. Along with that, take the advice that is given to you from experienced teachers in the district. Their opinions are usually grounded in many years of knowledge about the operations of the district. Beware of believing that you have "all the answers" because the education course you took in college made the statement. The real world of the classroom is much different from anything taught in college courses.

3. Learn to manage your time

You will have more work to do than there are hours in the day. It is important to prioritize the work. Avoid procrastination; that only makes matters worse. Plan ahead. Be aware that the week of parent teacher conferences will be time intensive and plan for it.

2. Learn when to say 'no.'

You will be asked to be on many committees and to spend countless hours at school. Prioritize your interests and know when to say "No." Don't allow your "need to be needed" overcome your good sense.You cannot do it all. Accept that fact and do what you can do well.

1. Be a member of the local education association

The Association is your safety net during your probationary period. Know your Association Reps and local leaders. Use them as a source of support and information. If you're asked to do something you're unsure about, contact an Association member and discuss it. They are there to help you succeed. Use them!