How to Enjoy Summer Break and Still Get Organized for Back to School
If you’re anything like most teachers, you’ve been soaking up sunshine, fireworks, and a well-deserved break this 4th of July. But let’s be honest… that little voice in your head is already whispering:
“Should I start getting ready for the new school year?”
Here’s the thing: you can enjoy your summer AND get organized for back to school — without spending hours behind a computer. In this post, I’m sharing a few of my favorite summer teacher organization tips!
1. Choose One Easy Prep Task Each Week
Don’t stress yourself out trying to plan your entire year. Just pick one back-to-school task each week. Here are some examples:
Week 1: Organize your digital files (class lists, behavior logs, etc.)
Week 2: Set up editable slides for your routines
Week 3: Print or prep your go-to templates (conference forms, reading logs)
Small steps now = less stress later.
2. Prep Parent-Teacher Communication Tools
Having a system in place for parent-teacher conferences will save you hours during one of the busiest times of year. Use templates that let you:
Collect notes and data quickly
Share student strengths and goals clearly
Stay consistent with each family
3. Create or Customize Classroom Routines
Whether you’re doing math centers, reading rotations, or flexible seating, clear visual routines will keep your class running smoothly. Editable rotation slides or direction templates are huge time savers — and help build student independence from day one.
4. Save Your Favorite Resources in One Place
Start a simple “Back to School” folder (digital or physical) with:
Lesson plans or activities for the first week
Editable slides and templates
Classroom decor or procedures
You’ll thank yourself later when the back-to-school chaos hits.
Two Must-Have Tools for Teacher Organization
Here are two of my absolute favorite teacher templates that I use every single year — and right now during my Summer Power of Projects Dollar Deal Sale, they’re just $1 or less!
Editable Parent-Teacher Conference Planning Sheet
This template has saved me hours of prep time. It gives you a clear, professional way to organize everything you need to discuss with families — from strengths and concerns to goals and next steps.
Stress-free conferences = a happier you.
Grab it HERE!
Editable Station Rotation Slides
I use these editable slides all year long — for reading groups, math centers, morning work, and more. You can completely customize them to match your classroom routines.
Less explaining, more learning.
Grab it HERE!
Final Thoughts
Getting organized for the new school year doesn’t mean giving up your summer. Just pick a few high-impact tools, take it one step at a time, and enjoy that iced coffee by the pool.
And don’t forget — during the Power of Projects Sale, everything in my store is just $1. It’s the perfect time to grab what you need and start your year strong!
Shop the sale here
