Teacher Approved: Elementary Teacher Tips & Strategies

Episódios

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  273. Can't Miss Classic: The Reason Most Teacher PD Ideas Never Make It to Your Classroom 16.07.2026 25min

  Have you ever left a conference or PD full of inspiration... only to realize you never actually used any of those great ideas? In this replay episode, we’re sharing a simple framework to help you get the most out of Teacher Summer Talks, from choosing the sessions that fit your biggest needs to capturing ideas, taking meaningful notes, and actually putting what you learn into action. If you’re joining us for Teacher Summer Talks, this episode will help you make the most of every session and walk away with strategies you’ll actually use in your classroom. Grab your free ticket and join us!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-pd-tips/Resources:Register for Teacher Summer Talks!Pre-order our book: Structure and SparkGood StoreSun Basin Wooden Wick Candle Monochrome Coloring BookJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 71, The Easy Way Teachers Can Learn This Summer: 10 PD Books We LoveEpisode 236, Your Tired Teacher Guide to January Prep From Your CouchEpisode 240, 7 Quick Teacher Approved Tips For a Better January
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  272. Your Free Backstage Pass to Teacher Summer Talks 13.07.2026 30min

  In this special episode, we share a sneak peek at our upcoming Teacher Summer Talks Summit with quick, practical tips from eight expert educators! From writing instruction and math routines to classroom management and teacher well-being, you'll walk away with fresh ideas to help you prepare for the new school year. We also share one of our favorite productivity strategies for making back-to-school prep more effective by managing your energy instead of your time.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/free-teacher-summit/Resources:Register for Teacher Summer Talks!Preorder our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyConnect With the Speakers on Instagram:Jessica: @ideasbyjiveyShelby: @littlejusticeleadersLeigh: @appliciousteacherGreg: @mrelementarymathMarcy: @saddleupfor2ndgradeJen: @strategicclassroomKelsey: @educateandrejuvenateJacey: @jaceypulverschankRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 241. What Smart Teachers Do Before a PD Event (So It Actually Sticks)Episode 112. 5 Podcasts for Elementary Teachers That We Know You’ll Love!Episode 71. The Easy Way Teachers Can Learn This Summer: 10 PD Books We LoveEpisode 16. Easy Summer PD
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  271. Can't Miss Classic: The 6 Lists That Tell You If You're Really Ready for August 09.07.2026 22min

  Back-to-school prep doesn't have to feel like an endless, overwhelming to-do list! In this replay episode, we're sharing the six areas we believe every teacher needs to have ready before the first day of school so you can head back feeling calm and confident instead of overwhelmed. We walk through practical tips for preparing your classroom, supplies, procedures, welcome plans, lessons, and even yourself, so you can focus on what matters most and start the school year with less stress and more confidence.Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/are-you-ready-for-the-school-year/Resources:Get your FREE ticket to Teacher Summer Talks!Back to School Readiness PlanEnd of Year Bulletin Board ActivityProcedures & Routines Planning Guide and ChecklistClassroom Procedures & Routines Editable SlidesGuided Discovery Back to School Bundle PackBack to School Pattern Block Mats for the First Day of SchoolFirst Day of School Editable GuideEnd of Year Road Map FreebieThe Rom-Commers by Katherine Center@pieladybooks on InstagramPre-order our book: Structure and SparkJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 73, 4 Reasons Why Affirming Students Is The Most Important Goal for Back to SchoolEpisode 75, Classroom Procedures and Expectations: How they Differ and How to Teach ThemEpisode 77, 3 Reasons Why a First Day of School Script Will Save Your SanityEpisode 78, Teacher Approved Tips: The Best First Day Arrival Activity and Pre-Writing AssessmentsEpisode 83, Classroom Setup Tips For Success: 8 Guiding Questions for Designing Your SpaceEpisode 134, The 10 Stages of Teacher Summer BreakEpisode 137, 3 Helpful Tips for Setting up Your Classroom Library
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  270. The Smart Way to Tackle Your Back to School To-Do List 06.07.2026 26min

  If your back-to-school overwhelm is ramping up, this episode will help calm the stress and tackle those to-do lists. We share a simple framework for prioritizing your endless tasks based on four essential student needs: safety, belonging, competence, and growth. We share why routines and procedures matter so much, how to help students feel welcomed and capable, and why focusing on the right tasks first creates a smoother start to the year. If you’re feeling pulled in a hundred directions, this episode will help you focus on the right priorities to build a classroom that is safe, connected, and ready for meaningful learning!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-teacher-checklist/Resources:Get your FREE ticket to Teacher Summer Talks!Procedures and Routines Planning GuideTell Try Tally Talk slidesOur Perfect StormSuction cup dish brush holderPreorder our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 201. 20 Easy Back-To-School Teacher Tasks You Can Totally Do from the CouchEpisode 143. The Easiest Back to School TipEpisode 154. 5 Steps for Classroom Procedure SuccessEpisode 219. How to Build a Classroom Community That Lasts All YearEpisode 146. Never Pick up Another Stray Crayon: Why We Love Guided Discovery
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  269. Can't Miss Classic: The Power Hour Trick That Beats Back-to-School Panic 02.07.2026 24min

  Summer can cause teachers to either put off school prep and then panic when August arrives, or miss out on a restful summer break because they’re too focused on work. In this episode, we’re revisiting a simple, sustainable approach to back-to-school preparation that helps you feel ready without sacrificing your summer. We walk you through our six-step "Teacher Power Hour" system, showing you how to identify meaningful priorities, focus on high-impact tasks, protect your prep time, and avoid the burnout that comes from panic planning. We offer practical strategies for choosing the right back-to-school tasks, protecting valuable rest, and creating routines that make preparation feel calm, intentional, and manageable.Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-teacher-prep/Resources:Grab your FREE ticket to Teacher Summer Talks 2026!BTS Success CourseEditable Classroom Seating Chart Maker ToolTell, Try, Tally, Talk SlidesBack to School Readiness ChecklistsZero Days by Ruth WarePodcast: Happier with Gretchen RubinCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 55. Thriving as a Teacher: One Helpful StrategyEpisode 87. 4 Important Ways to Build Classroom Community At Back to SchoolEpisode 201. 20 Easy Back-to-School Teacher Tasks You Can Totally Do From the CouchEpisode 203. 6 Teacher Traps We’re Saying No to This Back to School SeasonMentioned in this episode:Set up back-to-school the right way, so the year doesn't come undone by October. Get your free ticket: https://secondstorywindow.net/summertalks
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  268. Why You Should Add More Whimsy to Your Teacher Summer 29.06.2026 23min

  Recovery is about more than just rest, so in this episode we’re making the case for adding a little whimsy to your summer. We share how playfulness can help teachers reconnect with themselves, the science behind why positive emotions matter, and simple ways to create a summer that feels more memorable, meaningful, and fun. Give yourself permission to enjoy things simply because they bring you joy!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-summer-ideas/Resources:Diaper CaddyQ-Less gameSticker By Number bookWord Search MysteryPlant magnetsPaint markersPreorder our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 262. Crashing Isn't Resting: The Summer Teacher Mistake to Skip This YearEpisode 263. Can't Miss Classic: Stop Letting Guilt and Panic Steal Your Teacher SummerEpisode 196. The 3 Step Plan to Park Those School Thoughts and Enjoy Your Summer BreakEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn’t Feel Like WorkEpisode 14. Best Summer Ever
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  267. Can't Miss Classic: 20 Teacher TV Tasks for Your Couch Productivity Era 25.06.2026 22min

  Are you enjoying your summer lounge time but feel that itch to get ahead for back-to-school? We’re revisiting 20 simple “TV tasks” that teachers can tackle from the comfort of the couch while still protecting their summer rest and recovery. We talk about the importance of setting boundaries around summer work, creating both a summer no list and a summer yes list, and finding ways to make back-to-school prep feel less overwhelming. While it’s important to remember that rest is productive on its own, these simple tasks will help you enjoy your downtime while making the start of the school just a bit easier!Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-teacher-prep-tasks/Resources:Freebie: End of Year RoadmapReadiness Checklists Wishing Star Printable@Teacherpodcastrecs on InstagramThe Holiday Headstart PodcastSeed ProbioticHero SunscreenCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 196. The 3 Step Plan to Park Those School Thoughts and Enjoy Your Summer BreakEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn’t Feel Like WorkEpisode 199. Time, Tech, & Tasks: The 3 Boundaries That Save Teacher Summers
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  266. 7 Low-Effort Ways to Get Ahead, Whenever You Feel Like It 22.06.2026 26min

  In this episode, we revisit one of our favorite summer philosophies: recovery and readiness. To focus on the ‘readiness’ side of things, we share seven simple tasks that take 10 minutes or less but can help you feel more prepared for the new school year without turning your summer into a work project. From choosing your first-day outfit and first read-aloud to updating your emergency kit and collecting community-building activities, these small actions can prevent last-minute stress and help you ease into back-to-school season with greater confidence and peace of mind.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-prep-for-teachers/Resources:How to use Canva email templatesHow to create an email signature in CanvaKid friendly pop playlistCalming piano playlistHulken bag largeHulken bag smallClevermade Hulken knock off (read reviews!)Preorder our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 262. Crashing Isn't Resting: The Summer Teacher Mistake to Skip This YearEpisode 263. Can't Miss Classic: Stop Letting Guilt and Panic Steal Your Teacher SummerEpisode 209. The Most Important Back-To-School Prep No One Talks AboutEpisode 27. Your One Word Theme for The Year
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  265. Can't Miss Classic: Your Permission Slip to Skip These 6 BTS Pressures 18.06.2026 25min

  In this episode, we revisit the six back-to-school pressures we’re saying no to this summer: elaborate classroom themes, laminating everything, chasing every social media trend, overspending on classroom decor, making our rooms look picture-perfect, and comparing ourselves to other teachers online. We share practical reminders for staying grounded during back-to-school season by focusing on meaningful instruction, simple systems, and our own well-being instead of panic-driven prep. We’re here to remind you that your small wins are worth celebrating, and a calm, rested teacher will matter more to your students than a Pinterest-worthy classroom.Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-teacher-stress/Resources:First Day of School Lesson Plan and Planning GuideColton Gentry's Third Act, by Jeff ZentnerCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 81. 20 Teacher Approved Back to School Tips From ListenersEpisode 143. The Easiest Back to School TipEpisode 194. Want a Smoother Back to School? Do These 5 Things NowEpisode 201. 20 Easy Back-to-School Teacher Tasks You Can Totally Do From the Couch
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  264. From Romance to Research: Our Summer Reading Picks for Teachers 15.06.2026 28min

  In this special summer reading episode, we’re sharing some of our favorite recent reads that will inspire you to kick back with a good book on your break. From magical realism to historical romance, we discuss the books that have surprised and delighted us this year, and we share recommendations for professional development and classroom inspiration. Plus, we give an exciting update on our upcoming book, Structure and Spark, and why we’re passionate about helping teachers navigate the different seasons of the school year. If you're looking for great book recommendations to add to your summer reading stack, this episode is full of ideas!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/summer-reading-list-for-teachers/Books Mentioned:The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India HoltonClassroom Engagement: The Unwritten Code by Jen FosterHow to Write a Love Story by Catherine WalshThe Together Teacher: Plan Ahead, Get Organized, Save Time by Maia Heyck-MerlinThe Smallest of Joys by Diane ShifferThe Someday Garden by Ashley PostonOne and Only by Maurene GooLady Tremaine by Rachel HochhauserThe Joyful Classroom by Lynn Bechtel and Kristen VincentDo I Have Your Attention? Understanding Memory Constraints and Maximizing Learning by Blake HarvardDolly All the Time by Annabel MonaghanThis Book Made Me Think of You by Libby PagePreorder our book Structure and SparkMore Resources:Kindle / Tablet standReading Journey appJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 71. The Easy Way Teachers Can Learn This Summer: 10 PD Books We LoveEpisode 65. Make an Easy Plan For Your Perfect Teacher Summer: Recovery and ReadinessEpisode 130. The 2 Things Teachers Need to Refuel This SummerEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn’t Feel Like Work
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  263. Can't Miss Classic: Stop Letting Guilt and Panic Steal Your Teacher Summer 11.06.2026 26min

  In this replay episode, we’re exploring why boundaries are the secret ingredient to a joyful, restorative summer and a smoother transition back to school. We walk through practical ways to set healthy boundaries around time, technology, and task load so summer doesn’t turn into “a quieter form of burnout.” Along the way, we talk about balancing recovery with back-to-school readiness, avoiding comparison traps on social media, creating realistic summer goals, and learning to say no without guilt. Whether you need permission to rest or a plan to head into August feeling more prepared, this episode will help you create a summer that feels both refreshing and intentional.Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-summer-boundaries/Resources:Freebie: End of Year RoadmapResource: Back to School Pattern Block ActivitiesResource: Back to School Lego Activities Podcast: Happier with Gretchen RubinPre-order our book: Structure and SparkJoin the Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple PodcastsLeave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 131. To-Do List Magic - How to Prioritize Your Teacher Tasks This SummerEpisode 134. The 10 Stages of Teacher Summer BreakEpisode 196. The 3 Step Plan to Park Those School Thoughts and Enjoy Your Summer BreakEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn’t Feel Like Work
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  262. Crashing Isn't Resting: The Summer Teacher Mistake to Skip This Year 08.06.2026 27min

  In this episode, we explore why crashing on the couch isn’t the same as true recovery and share our four-part framework for summer restoration: relax, refresh, refocus, and recharge. We talk about how to know when you might need each type of recovery, the common traps teachers fall into during summer break, and how to create a more intentional approach to rest so you can head into the next school year feeling like yourself again.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/active-rest-for-teachers/Resources:Cross legged chairStorage boxPreorder our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 260. A 7-Day Decompression Plan for the First Week of SummerEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn’t Feel Like WorkEpisode 130. The 2 Things Teachers Need to Refuel This SummerEpisode 12. Recovering from the School YearEpisode 65. Make an Easy Plan For Your Perfect Teacher Summer: Recovery and Readiness
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  261. Can't Miss Classic: Why Teacher Summer Feels So Weird (And What to Do About It) 04.06.2026 24min

  In this episode, we revisit the 10 emotional stages of summer break for teachers, from the pure joy of the first day of freedom and relaxation, to productivity bursts, procrastination, panic, and finally the excitement of a brand-new school year. We also share relatable teacher stories, practical ways to recover from burnout without drifting through summer, and strategies for avoiding back-to-school overwhelm. Make the most of this summer break by recognizing what stage you’re in and how to plan your days moving forward!Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-summer-break-stagesResources:End of Year Road Map FreebieClear Moving BagsNon-clear Moving BagsCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 130. The 2 Things Teachers Need to Refuel This SummerEpisode 128. Back to School Boost: Do These 3 Things Now to Prep for Next School YearEpisode 67. How to Actually Get Stuff Done for School This SummerEpisode 65. Make an Easy Plan For Your Perfect Teacher Summer: Recovery and ReadinessEpisode 14. Best Summer EverEpisode 13. Design Your SummerEpisode 12. Recovering from the School Year
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  260. A 7-Day Teacher Decompression Plan for First Week of Summer 01.06.2026 21min

  The start of summer feels like it should instantly refresh teachers, but too often we find ourselves wondering how to spend our time. In this episode, we share teacher summer break tips for easing into summer without falling into guilty rest or the productivity trap. We walk through a simple seven-day decompression plan designed to help teachers transition out of school mode, reconnect with fun and creativity, and enjoy the small things that make summer feel restorative.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-summer-break-tips/Resources:Songs to Walk Away from an Explosion in Slow Motion playlistSilicone sink topperCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 12. Recovering from the School YearEpisode 13. Design Your SummerEpisode 14. Best Summer EverEpisode 130. The 2 Things Teachers Need to Refuel This SummerEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn’t Feel Like Work
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  259. The Decide Once Strategy That Will Save Your Teacher Brain Next Year 25.05.2026 28min

  The end of the school year is the perfect time to notice the recurring problems in your work day, and to plan new systems to make next year easier. We’re sharing the “decide once” strategy that helps reduce the decision fatigue teachers face every day by creating simple systems for predictable classroom problems. From behavior management and unfinished work to grading and email boundaries, we talk about practical ways to stop making the same exhausting decisions over and over so next school year feels less chaotic and more manageable.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/decision-fatigue-teachers-2/Resources:Fast drying stone sink traysMurdokuCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 79. Avoid Back to School Decision Fatigue with These 4 Teacher Approved StrategiesEpisode 77. 3 Reasons Why a First Day of School Script Will Save Your SanityEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn’t Feel Like WorkEpisode 231. What’s Not Working in Your Classroom? Time to KISS Those Problems Goodbye!
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  258. Can't Miss Classic: 10 End-of-Year Celebration Ideas Your Students Will Love 18.05.2026 22min

  As the school year winds down, it’s important to find meaningful ways to celebrate the year with intention. Drawing on ideas from our Teacher Approved community, we explore countdowns, theme days, and creative class celebrations that bring both fun and purpose to those final weeks. These strategies will help keep students engaged, create lasting memories, and honor the classroom community you’ve built, so you can wrap up the year in a way that feels thoughtful, memorable, and manageable.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/last-week-of-school-activities-elementary/Resources:Summer Review PacketsDLITE Day PacketsYours Truly by Abby JimenezJane & Edward: A Modern Reimagining of Jane Eyre by Melodie EdwardCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 195. Ditch the Countdown: A Better Way to Create End of Year ClosureEpisode 62. End of Year Awards: 5 Reasons You Should Rethink This Classroom TraditionEpisode 7. The Secret to End of Year SurvivalEpisode 196. The 3 Step Plan to Park Those School Thoughts and Enjoy Your Summer Break
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  257. 5 Smart Switch-Ups for May Classroom Management 11.05.2026 21min

  May can be a tough stretch for teachers, with high emotions, routine pushback, and packed calendars. In this episode, we share why the mid-May slump feels so challenging and how trying to tighten control can backfire. Instead, we walk through five simple ways to rebalance structure and spark so you can keep students engaged, reduce chaos, and finish the school year feeling more steady and in control. These small shifts can bring fresh energy to your classroom without adding extra stress.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/may-classroom-management/Resources:3 Wins appFoot creamCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 124. Spring Fever: 3 Tips to Help Your Spring Classroom ManagementEpisode 251. 5 Classroom Management Tricks That Do the Work for YouEpisode 247. 4 Spring Classroom Management Headaches and How To Fix ThemEpisode 232. 5 Ways Teachers Can Spark Joy When Classroom Energy Tanks
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  256. Can’t Miss Classic: How to Save Hours at Back-to-School Time by Prepping in May 04.05.2026 21min

  May might feel like the worst time to think about next year, but we’re sharing simple, low-effort ways to get ahead while everything is still fresh. In this episode, we walk through five smart back to school prep strategies you can tackle right now using what you’re already doing. These simple ideas will help you save time, stay organized, and ease that August stress before it even starts.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-prep-in-may/Resources:Freebie: End of Year RoadmapGuided Discovery of School Tools First Day Pattern Block Activities First Day Lego Activities Looking Ahead, Looking Back Bulletin BoardTeacher goodie bag ideasPeanut butter BarebellsCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyIf you enjoyed this episode, you'll love these too:Episode 249. 5 Easy Teacher Tasks for March That Pay off Big at Back to SchoolEpisode 252. Can’t Miss Classic: April Planning That Makes August EasierEpisode 188. Ending the School Year Strong: 3 Steps to Help Teachers Thrive in Term 4Episode 193. Why Smart Teachers Start Planning for Next Year in May
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  255. 4 Smart Ways to Make End-of-School-Year Group Work Actually Work 27.04.2026 26min

  Late April energy is real, so we’re sharing how to use group work to channel that energy into structured, meaningful collaboration. We break down a simple framework for assigning groups, prepping students with clear expectations, designing tasks that truly require teamwork, and wrapping up in a way that improves future activities. Group work can be the key to keeping students engaged, and might even create extra time for you to get things done before the school year ends.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/group-work-in-the-classroom/Resources:Nod PodCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 254. Why Your Students Get Chatty During Transitions (And How to Stop It)Episode 251. 5 Classroom Management Tricks That Do the Work for YouEpisode 243. How to Protect Your Planning Time (So You Can Stop Working For Free)Episode 223. The Core 4 Routines Every Classroom Needs to Run Like Clockwork
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  254. Why Your Students Get Chatty During Transitions (And How to Stop It) 20.04.2026 28min

  Transitions don’t have to feel chaotic. In this episode, we share simple classroom transition strategies to reduce chatter by intentionally designing what happens before, during, and after each shift in activity. From clear directions and action cues to managing movement and preventing bottlenecks, we walk through practical ways to keep things running smoothly. These small, thoughtful changes can have a big impact on keeping students engaged and your classroom calm.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/classroom-transition-strategies/Resources:Teacher Approved: Calming Piano PlaylistDehumidifierStraw OrganizerCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 247. 4 Spring Classroom Management Headaches and How To Fix ThemEpisode 48. How to Make Classroom Transitions Simple With Clear Beginnings and EndingsEpisode 49. Rapid Classroom Transitions: How to Save 45 Hours a YearEpisode 50. 3 Guidelines to Make Classroom Transitions Work Smarter No Harder