Author: southernschoolhouse24@gmail.com

Expert Tips for National Boards-Passing the Components

Colorful fireworks exploding in the night sky creating a festive atmosphere.

Fireworks!!  This is the goal when you open your National Boards Account on Score Release Day.  Seeing the popping digital fireworks is such a relief.   Yet getting to this point is an uphill journey that breaks your teaching down and then builds your skills back up to a higher level. 

Marching into March: Building a Culture of Respect

Learning about respect through books helps children to understand this important value. Stories offer relatable scenarios, characters, and experiences that children can connect with, allowing them to understand what respect truly means.

Easy Timeline for IEP Paperwork

Preparing for an IEP meeting does not have to feel overwhelming. Much of the stress comes from feeling rushed or unsure about timelines. Having a simple system in place, especially early in the school year can make IEP preparation feel manageable and organized.

February Read Alouds; For the Love!

February Picture books add some seasonal fun and flair to your teaching day. Enjoy these cute tales hand-picked by the teachers at the Southern Schoolhouse.

The Simple Teacher Checklist for a Smooth Return After Holiday Break

By Shannon at Southern Schoolhouse Two weeks may not seem like a long break, but even a short pause can throw off classroom routines, expectations, and momentum. Returning after Christmas break often means students and teachers need time to ease back into structure. Having a few key things prepared ahead of time can make the transition smoother, reduce stress, and help everyone settle back into learning with confidence. Classroom Reset Lesson Prep  Routines & Expectations Copies & Materials Calendar & Dates Student Review  First-Day Focus You don’t need to do everything. Just enough to make the first week back feel calm and manageable.

More Everyday Winter Outfits for Teacher

There’s nothing like putting on a warm and cozy outfit to embrace the chill of the winter. Whether it’s a soft, oversized sweater paired with your favorite leggings or a hoodie with fluffy socks.

January Read Alouds to Beat the Winter Blues

Loud Winter Nap,
Meet January,
Tacky the Penguin,
Snowman Paul and Kate’s Olympic Dream,
The Snow Thief,
How to Catch a Snowman,
Snowmen at Night,
Snowmen at Work,
The Mitten,
Squirrel’s New Years Resolution

Education and Teaching Books for New Teachers

Reading educational and teaching books is important because it provides a way to gain knowledge, deepen your understanding of topics and develop teaching skills. Here are some books for new teachers as they begin their journey as a teacher.

Easy Christmas Crafts for the Classroom

By Beth at the Southern Schoolhouse It’s that time of year again! We love giving our students a chance to have fun and make something they can take home as a little snapshot of this age and grade. But let’s be honest—we’re teachers, so it has to be simple and budget-friendly. Here are a few ideas that have been a hit in years past! Snowman Ornament- Materials Needed: Round Wooden Ornament with Student Picture: Materials Needed: Reindeer OrnamentMaterial Needed:

The Best 15-Minute Nighttime Routine for Kids

December is busy and full of excitement, so kids need a predictable, calming routine that works when days/ evenings are unstructured. This 15-minute routine gives kids exactly what they need before bedtime, especially in busy during the holiday rush

Simple Classroom Management Techniques That Make a Big Difference

Classroom management doesn’t have to mean complicated systems or endless behavior charts. Sometimes, it’s the small techniques you use each day that set the tone for success. These simple, consistent habits help create structure, calm, and connection, without adding to your already full plate.

Simple Daily Goals: A Practical Strategy for Struggling Students

Every student struggles at some point, whether it’s staying on task, managing emotions, or navigating social situations. Instead of focusing on what’s not working, one of the most effective ways to support these students is to give them ownership through small, achievable goals.

Practical Ways to Bring Social-Emotional Learning Into Your Classroom

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) isn’t an “extra” to squeeze in, it’s a way to support both student growth and academic success. When students understand their emotions, manage challenges, and collaborate with peers, they’re better prepared to learn and thrive. The good news? SEL can be woven seamlessly into your everyday lessons.

Cozy Reads for Cool Days: Picture Books Kids Will Love

By Southern Schoolhouse Grab a blanket, a mug of cocoa, and your favorite read-alouds! These picture books are perfect for cozy classroom moments from crisp fall days to the sparkle of winter. November Books December Books

Fantastic Focus Strategy to Help Students Without Constant Reminders

Sometimes students need just a little nudge to focus, but constantly redirecting them can disrupt the flow of your lesson. Cue-response systems are a simple, effective way to give students a gentle reminder to get ready, stay on task, or transition smoothly, all while keeping it private and positive.

Part 2: Quick Mindfulness Moments for Teachers and Students

After helping first-year teachers reflect on stressful moments in their day, the next step is finding ways to reset and regroup, both for the teacher and the students. Even a brief pause can help everyone refocus, calm down, and approach the next part of the day with more clarity.

Week One – What Worked? What We Need to Work On!

Whew—week one is done! By Friday, I was exhausted and grateful for the long weekend. Overall, I was happy with how things went. Was it perfect? No. That’s why I want to pause, look at what worked, and name the routines we still need to strengthen for week two.

What’s Your Teacher Vibe? Pick Your First Week Tee!

Kick off the school year with a look that matches your energy! Whether you’re all about building classroom community, setting strong expectations, or just surviving the first week with coffee in hand—we’ve got the perfect teacher tee for you.

Start Smart: Cute & Practical Back-to-School Accessories

Start the school year with accessories that show off your teacher style! From fun classroom-themed earrings to head bands and hats, these cute and practical back-to-school finds will help you stay organized, stylish, and ready to take on the year.

Day 4 and 5: Settle in and Strengthen the Foundation

By Days 4 and 5, the classroom may start to feel more familiar, but the most important work continues. You’re still reinforcing expectations, building relationships, practicing routines, and gradually layering in academics. You’re creating a safe, consistent environment where students feel connected and confident, all while staying fair and consistent as you introduce the full daily schedule.

Day 3: Smooth Transitions Start with Consistency

By day 3, we begin switching classes. This requires a lot of practice and modeling. Where do backpacks go? What materials do you need? Where do you line up? How do you switch with the least amount of issues?

Day 1: How to Build a Respectful Culture

The first day of school isn’t just about meeting your students, it’s about setting the tone for your entire year. Respect, community, and structure start on Day 1.