The First-Year Teacher's Survival Guide Ready-to-Use Strategies, Tools & Activities for Meeting the Challenges of Each School Day

Everything you need to survive and thrive in the first year of teaching, now in an updated fifth edition!

The First-Year Teacher’s Survival Guide offers updated strategies, tips, and tools new teachers need to face classroom challenges with confidence and thrive in the profession. Complete with downloadable forms, templates, and additional online materials, this must-have book will help you:

• Design and facilitate learning that will engage and inspire students
• Prioritize self-care to maintain a sustainable work-life balance
• Maximize the use of digital tools and teach effectively in an AI-enabled world
• Collaborate with colleagues and expand your professional learning network
• Cultivate positive relationships with students, families, and caregivers
• Support student behavior to prevent and minimize disruptions

This is the ultimate companion for new teachers, empowering them to succeed in the modern classroom and greet each new school day with a smile.

“The First-Year Teacher’s Survival Guide has always been my ‘go-to’ book recommendation for new educators. Michelle Cummings has produced an invaluable support for teachers—and their students!”
—LARRY FERLAZZO, author of The ELL Teacher’s Toolbox and Education Week teacher advice columnist

“Teachers could have no better guide than Michelle Cummings. For the new teacher looking for a veritable co-pilot, or the experienced teacher looking for a practical reference, this book is an absolute treasure.”
—JOE HOLLAND, former CEO, Teachers Pay Teachers

“This book is what every new teacher and their mentors need and what every experienced teacher wishes they had. This book is a treasure chest that will empower teachers to succeed.”
—DR. ANGELA FULTON, Regional Superintendent, Broward County Public Schools

The quick, comprehensive, and accessible guide that new educators need to make it through the first year and thrive in the profession.

The First-Year Teacher's Survival Guide provides valuable strategies, activities, and tools you need to succeed in the classroom. Now in its fifth edition, this book meets the needs of today’s K-12 teachers, updated with the latest tools, techniques, and topics that aren’t addressed in teacher education programs. Inside, you will find practical information on classroom management, professional growth, trauma-informed practices, student engagement, social-emotional learning and more. You’ll also get an essential introduction to teaching and learning in an AI-enabled world, as well as maximizing the use of digital tools, devices, and apps. With downloadable forms, templates, and additional resources available online, this book truly supports you as you enter the challenging and rewarding profession of education.

• Get ideas for communicating with concerned parents and caregivers
• Learn tips for maintaining a comfortable work-life balance and prioritizing self-care
• Help your students succeed with tech-integration and personalized instruction
• Maintain a calm, safe classroom with classroom management techniques, apps, and restorative practices
• Discover proven strategies for creating a positive classroom environment and, supportive relationships with students

This must-have guide is filled with the information and tips new K-12 teachers need to face classroom challenges with confidence and thrive in the profession.