As mid-July hits, the Fourth of July holiday is in the rearview window, teachers find themselves in that strange summer limbo. Some are already shopping for back-to-school supplies, while others are still fully in beach mode (and rightfully so!). If you're somewhere in the middle—itching to feel a little more prepared without diving headfirst into full-on school mode—this post is for you.
Here are five low-pressure ways to get your mindset and systems ready while still soaking up the last few weeks of summer:
1. Reflect on What Worked (and What Didn't)
Grab a notebook, open your notes app, or just take a quiet walk and think back on last year:
What routines made your life easier?
What was more stressful than it needed to be?
Is there something you promised yourself you'd do differently next year?
2. Declutter One Digital Space
Instead of trying to reorganize your whole Google Drive, just pick one folder:
Maybe it's your "End of Year" files or your math center printables.
Clean out duplicates or rename files that have names like "Final_FINAL_V2_Copy2.pdf."
3. Revisit Your Teacher ‘Why’
Mid-summer is the perfect time to reconnect with the heart of teaching. Grab a quote, reread a thank-you note from a student, or even scroll through a few classroom photos that make you smile.
Taking a moment to recharge your why can help you return with purpose—not just a checklist.
4. Prep a “First Day Feel-Good Folder”
Start a folder (digital or real) with things that will help make the first week smoother:
A favorite read-aloud
An easy, meaningful community-building activity
A backup plan for “when everything goes wrong” days
You’re not planning your first week—you’re simply collecting things you already know work.
5. Make Space for Something Fun
Before summer slips away, make a list of 3 things you still want to do just for you.
A day trip?
A book that has nothing to do with teaching?
One lazy afternoon without guilt?
Burnout prevention starts in July—not October. ☀️
Final Thoughts
Getting ready for the new school year doesn’t have to mean planning every lesson or shopping for supplies in July. Sometimes, it's more powerful to reflect, organize just a little, and remind yourself of the joy that brought you to the classroom in the first place.
You've got this. Now go enjoy that sunshine—August will be here soon enough.
