by Guest Author
Start the New Year Strong
This is an exciting time of year for everyone getting ready to go back to school. There is so much hope and expectation as the new school year approaches. You’re rested, your staff is rested, and anything is possible! Families aren’t crossing your threshold because they’ve been told that this is the school they must attend because of zoning; they choose to come, because you offer the learning environment that best suits their children’s educational needs.
At the Association of American Educators (AAE), we’re constantly supporting that freedom. We recognize that you and your staff also have a choice of where you’ll spend the next school year and whether it is a traditional public school, charter public school, or an independent school, we support that choice because we know that America’s students learn in many different ways and diverse environments.
With nearly 25 years of experience working with and supporting educators, we’ve noted a few simple yet often overlooked reminders that can help your team prepare for issues before they arise. During your pre-planning days, in addition to curriculum reviews, changes in standards and the many other necessary things to review, be sure not to gloss over or rush through the code of ethics review. With the digital landscape changing so quickly, take time to discuss your school policies on social media. Review classroom discipline and assure your staff that their assessments will be done according to state guidelines. Although, any number of issues can occur throughout the year and educators should be protected against the unexpected, these areas are the focus of numerous inquiries we receive across the country.
Take a little extra time now to outline your expectations and everyone will have a more fulfilling year.
AAE is a proud partner of GCSA, supporting the great charter schools we have here in the peach state. I look forward to visiting your school and meeting your staff. Pre-planning is an ideal time for me to present our professional association benefits so that administrators and staff can renew or join before students return…..and I love to bring treats and door prizes too!
Dana Williams
404.980.7300
dwilliams@aaeteachers.org
Guest Author
