"I’ve been the new teacher several times in my career. I remember the feelings of isolation and being overwhelmed! During the initial week of school, I leave new staff a little present in their mailboxes such as cute note pads or chocolate with a note welcoming them. During the first week or two, I stop by after school to see if they have any questions. It's surprising how many times they need somebody to talk to or cry to but they don't want to burden their own teammates. As a special area teacher, I work with all the kids and all the staff and can be a good sounding board for their concerns. The biggest thing is to not assume all's well if they're still standing. Be available to support them throughout the year. It's everybody's responsibility to help those new to our profession."

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From Lisa Haines (lhaines@pennsauken.net), an English teacher at Pennsauken High School in Pennsauken, New Jersey:

"Upon the opening of a new school year, I have the students write a letter to themselves identifying the goals that they would like to achieve during the year. The goals can range from the academic to the personal. I bind each class's letters without looking at them. I place them in a 'Goals Box’ located high up on the intercom. I tell them to keep their eyes on the box and remind themselves of their goals when things get tough. On the day of the final exam, I write a personal note to each student on the top of his/her letter. They look forward to reading my note and checking to see how well they did since they first wrote their goals in September."

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Question of the Week: Students in New Surroundings
From the Works4Me Worker Bees:

"What ideas do you have to help make your students comfortable in their new surroundings? We look forward to hearing your getting-to-know-you and ice breaker ideas for starting school."

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