10 Engaging Back to School Picture Books
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated June 11, 2025 Favorite Back to School Picture Books for Grades 3-5 The first days of school are all about building classroom community, setting expectations, and helping students…
Back to School
10 Tips for Back to School Season
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated June 11, 2025 The back to school season can be a tough and challenging time, even for experienced teachers. There is so much to do and it always…
Back to School Ice breakers
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated June 11, 2025 Building Classroom Community with Ice Breakers As the school year kicks off, creating a warm and welcoming classroom environment is essential. Back to school ice…
Back to School · Blog · Elementary · English
What is Academic Vocabulary?
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated June 14, 2023 Understanding academic vocabulary is a crucial aspect of student success, particularly in upper elementary and middle school. Academic vocabulary comprises the words that are commonly…
Creating the Ultimate Sub Plan
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated April 09, 2024 What are Sub Plans? Sub plans are an essential part of effective planning, ensuring that instruction continues smoothly even when the regular classroom teacher is…
Back to School · Blog · Elementary · English · Middle School
First Week of School Activities
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated June 11, 2025 First Week of School Activities for your Classroom The first week back to school is an important and exciting time. As teachers, we know it…