Association of Texas Professional Educators
 
 

The First Class Day

The first day can be hectic, so have a plan in place. Once students have arrived, give them an orientation. Introduce yourself and share a little information about yourself so students can get acquainted with you. Explain grading procedures, course requirements and classroom rules. Distribute labeled homework folders for students to carry work between school and home. If you teach elementary students, assign them an activity they can take home that first day. If you teach at the secondary level, provide a note-card to students to list information you may need such as home phone numbers, parents’ names and work numbers.

End the day on a positive note. Remember, your students’ last impression of their first day can influence how the next day begins. Show elementary school students where they should wait for class the following morning. Distribute and explain materials that need to be completed by parents. Replace name tags with bus tags (if applicable). Check your campus dismissal procedures for guidance.