Fall: Time for Change & Progress

Meredith Biesinger

The evenings are getting darker a little earlier, and the temperatures are cooling down just a bit. I am so ready for the first day of fall next week! 

Summer in the South is HOT. Students start school here during the first week of August, so cooler temperatures have been calling my name for a while now! 

With every new season comes new opportunities. Fall activities and field trips are always a favorite for elementary-aged students. For older students, the timeless tradition of football games, homecoming dances, and other activities is quickly approaching. 

The famous phrase “Sweater Weather “ means it’s time to bust out those cardigans, and don’t forget a seasonal coffee! 

Aside from the “fall favorite” activities many enjoy, such as tailgating or decorating for the season, this time of year is exciting! At this point, educators know their students and can now truly teach them while also developing a plan for personal progress and success. 

I also look forward to the opportunity to assess students and set new goals or re-visit goals since fall also indicates progress report time. 

As the leaves begin to change their colors, take a minute to recognize this turning point in the school year. On average, most teachers have 25-30 students in the classroom. For elementary teachers, please take two minutes per student scattered throughout the week and talk to them about their strengths and areas for improvement. Set a goal together, and re-visit that goal when the leaves have fallen off the trees. 

A mini-conference like this can be more challenging for secondary teachers, but it can still be done. Consider having each student fill out a three-question survey and address any needs from there.  The good news is, it is (almost) fall! You know your students, and they know you. This is a massive advantage in the art of teaching, so utilize it and enjoy it, along with changing colors and pumpkin spice everything that accompanies this new season.