The start of a new school year brings a unique mix of excitement and overwhelm. From prepping classrooms to building relationships with students, the to-do list can feel never-ending — and often, what teachers need most is clarity, connection, and confidence. That’s where the 2025 Back to School Playbook for Teachers comes in.
Here are four common back-to-school challenges — and how this free, practical resource helps solve them:
1. Overwhelm from Too Many Moving Parts
Teachers juggle a thousand details before students even walk through the door: classroom setup, lesson planning, communication with families, technology, and more. The playbook’s New School Year Checklist breaks it all down in a comprehensive but manageable format, so nothing falls through the cracks. It's an easy way to feel more organized — and less stressed.
2. Difficulty Building Belonging from Day One
The first few days of school are foundational for shaping classroom culture. The First 72 Hours activities included in the playbook are intentionally designed to build connection and belonging — with tailored options for both elementary and secondary classrooms. These ready-to-use lessons help teachers create a warm, inclusive start to the year.
3. Lack of Time to Personalize and Connect
Teachers often want to build strong individual connections with students but run out of time or energy to do it in meaningful ways. The Student Note Template offers a quick, powerful way to share encouraging words that students will carry with them — literally and emotionally. It’s a simple act that can make a lasting impact.
4. Needing Creative Ways to Strengthen Relationships
Getting students talking — and truly listening — to one another is key to developing a supportive classroom environment. The W.A.Y. In Activity (from our LoHi Toolkit) promotes face-to-face connection with low-prep, high-engagement prompts. It's a practical tool for fostering authentic student relationships right from the start.
Ready to Start Strong?
Download the 2025 Back to School Playbook for Teachers — a free resource packed with activities, templates, and checklists to help you create a connected and organized start to your school year.