Essential Strategies for a Successful Year
$35 | 5.5 hours
SKU: TEMT-ODS
Summary
Stepping into your first year as an elementary music teacher can feel overwhelming—where do you start, how do you plan, and how do you manage a room full of young musicians? This session provides a clear, strategic blueprint to help new teachers navigate their first year with confidence. Whether you are brand new to teaching or transitioning from secondary, you will learn how to prioritize what truly matters, create engaging lessons, and establish strong classroom management.
By the end of this session, you will leave with a simple game plan that sets you up for success. You will gain practical strategies to connect with students and staff, juggle the many hats of teaching, and foster a positive, musical classroom environment. Instead of just surviving your first year, you will be equipped to thrive—building a strong foundation for years to come.
Here is the class outline:
IntroductionIn this module, you will meet the course presenter and receive an overview of what to expect. Watch the welcome video from your instructor, who will share their insights and overview of the course material. |
Module 1: Before the Year StartsIn this module, you’ll learn how to set yourself up for a successful school year before students even walk through the door. We’ll cover establishing your priorities, building strong relationships with staff, and understanding school expectations. You’ll also get practical tips for setting up your classroom in a way that supports both organization and student engagement. By the end of this module, you’ll feel confident and prepared to start the year on the right foot! |
Module 2: First Weeks of SchoolIn this module, you’ll learn how to build strong rapport with students, create a welcoming environment on the first week of school, and use engaging games to review and assess student understanding. You’ll also explore how to analyze early data to develop a strategic game plan for success. By the end of this module, you’ll have the tools to create a positive and productive classroom culture from day one! |
Module 3: Classroom ManagementIn this module, you’ll learn how to build meaningful connections with students, establish clear procedures and routines, and balance school-wide initiatives with your personal management style. We’ll also share top book recommendations, practical tips, and tricks to help you create a structured, positive, and engaging learning environment. By the end of this module, you’ll have a strong foundation for confidently managing your classroom! |
Module 4: Curriculum Planning & TeachingIn this module, you’ll explore different elementary music teaching approaches, practical lesson routines, and various curriculum options. We'll share favorite repertoire resources, strategies for teaching rhythm and solfege, and techniques for introducing other key musical concepts. You’ll also learn how to incorporate movement and children’s literature into your lessons to create dynamic, well-rounded experiences for your students. By the end of this module, you’ll have the tools to plan and teach with confidence! |
Module 5: Creating SystemsIn this module, you’ll learn how to create a personal work schedule that helps you manage your time effectively. We’ll cover strategies for organizing important paperwork, classroom materials, and instruments, as well as tips for keeping your digital space clutter-free. By the end of this module, you’ll have practical systems in place to stay organized and reduce stress throughout the school year! |
Module 6: Time Management and Self CareIn this module, you’ll learn how to manage your time effectively, navigate challenging moments, and prioritize your well-being. We’ll also share the top 10 time-saving hacks from experienced teachers to help you work smarter, not harder. By the end of this module, you’ll have practical tools to take care of yourself while staying organized and energized throughout the school year! |
ConclusionFinal thoughts and take aways. Check for understanding Quiz and Survey |
Completion
The following certificates are awarded when the class is completed:
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Music ConstructED 5.5-hour PD Certificate of Completion |