Moving to a new classroom can be both exciting and overwhelming for teachers. That’s why I asked teachers in my Elementary Teachers Facebook Group as well as my email subscribers to share some of their best tips to make moving your classroom a stress-free experience!
Here’s some of their advice!
TIP 1: Take Photos of Your Current Classroom
Before you begin the process of moving to your new classroom, take a moment to snap a few photographs of your current setup. These photos can serve as a visual reference for anyone assisting you in setting up the new space. By simply looking at the photos, they can replicate the arrangement, saving time!
TIP 2: Purge It – Don’t Move It!
This was the most common tip teachers gave. Don’t move your junk from one room to the next. Instead, take inventory of your materials. Sort through your supplies and teaching resources, discarding any items that are worn out, outdated, or no longer serve a purpose in your new setting. Decluttering will not only streamline the moving process but also help you start fresh in your new space.
Haven’t used it in a few years? You don’t need it!
TIP 3: Get It Over With!
As soon as you can gain access to your new room, tackle the setup and organization right away. Starting early allows you to address any unforeseen challenges and adjustments without feeling rushed.
By getting a head start, you can alleviate the stress of last-minute preparations and ensure a smoother transition into your new classroom.
Plus, you can enjoy the rest of your summer without thinking of the big move!
TIP 4: Ask for Help!
Moving classrooms can be physically demanding and mentally exhausting. Don’t hesitate to seek help from friends or family members who can lend a hand. Whether it’s arranging furniture, organizing supplies, sharpening pencils, having a support system in place can make the moving process more manageable and enjoyable.
TIP 5: Make a Focused List
When you get into your new classroom, make a giant list on your white board of everything you *NEED* done and in place before you can start school. This will help you stay focused on what set up is essential, and what can wait. After all, the more time you spend in your classroom the more you will make adjustments to your organization. However, there are some things that just *HAVE* to be done before school begins.
TIP 6: Label
If you’re moving schools, and not just down the hall, you’ll likely be using a lot of boxes. Teachers recommended labeling and numbering every box. They suggested labeling exactly what is in each box to make unpacking much more efficient.
TIP 7: Be Positive
Many teachers said it’s important to look at a classroom move as an opportunity for a fresh start. As someone who has moved classrooms MANY times, I know it can be exhausting and discouraging. However, if you have a positive attitude about it, you can look at this as a new chance to set up your classroom in a way that you’ll enjoy. Maybe try out a new theme for your classroom decor. Try a desk arrangement you’ve never tried before. The opportunities for creativity are endless.
I hope these tips helped give you some ideas for making moving classrooms as stress-free (as possible)!
Switching Grade Levels? Check out teachers’ top tips!
