Tip of the Week: Preparing for the New School Year
As the summer begins to wind down, this is a valuable time to shift focus toward preparing for a strong start to the new school year, said Dominique R. Webster-Outten, the health and safety coach and a quality coach for ELRC Region 5.
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The transition between seasons offers a natural opportunity to pause, reflect, and make sure your program is aligned, organized, and ready for what’s ahead, Webster-Outten said.
Use this time for intentional planning by reviewing your policies and procedures with your team. Revisit daily routines, supervision practices, emergency plans, and family communication processes to ensure that everything is current and consistently implemented. These conversations help to strengthen clarity and create shared expectations across staff.
It’s also a great time to refresh your environment. Take a walk through your classrooms and outdoor spaces to identify what may need updating, repairing, or reorganizing before children return. Small adjustments now can make a big difference in creating a smooth and welcoming start.
Finally, consider how your summer experiences can inform your fall planning. Reflect on what worked well, what engaged children most, and where routines may need to be adjusted. This reflection helps to build continuity while supporting growth and improvement.
A thoughtful end-of-summer review helps to set the stage for a new school year that feels prepared, intentional, and ready for success for children, families, and staff alike.
More Resources
Event: Supervision 101, Trying Together
Resources and Toolkits, Pennsylvania Department of Education
27 Ways to Optimize Your Classroom Design for Better Learning, Edutopia
Daycare Schedule Guide: Template for Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers, Brightwheel
Better Communication with Families Starts with the Basics, National Education Association
Creating a Welcoming Classroom, United Federation of Teachers