I think things will get better

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I think things will get better
By Cathy-Dee

Hi Rox

First of all I am ashamed of those other teachers - they should be more than helpful, but unfortunately some "older" teachers find new teachers intimidating. I don't know why, but it is their insecurities and you
shouldn't have to deal with it.
This is what I would do in your place - first of all bond with that other new teacher - together things will be easier. Second make friends with the Secretary(s). They run the school, they will know many of the answers, etc., If the other first grade teachers are not helpful - talk to the second grade teachers, things will be similar in many ways.

Have both yourself and the other new teacher go into your administrator's office with a list of 4 or 5 main questions you need answers too. Start off by acknowledging you know how busy they are right now, but you would really feel more at ease if you knew these few things. Remember some of the things like year plans, unit plans, etc., often do not need to be dealt with until mid September. Also I don't know about your school, but in our school many things such as the gym time, computer time, etc., is not planned until our first staff meeting.

And everyone is stressed the first week of school, including those veteran teachers, you need them on your side so try to forgive the one who yelled at you. Sometimes it pays to be the one to step down and let them "win". Laugh at your mistakes - don't worry if everything is not perfect. I can guarantee this time next month things will be running a lot smoother - you'll have learned the ropes and will be less stressed about the little things (although right now they do not seem that little).

As far as plans go - most school districts have a curriculum you need to follow. You plan your year based on this curriculum. You should have the guides in your classroom - if not check with the secretary.
- one of the questions on your list to your administrator should be if he/she has any examples of past year plans, etc., to give you a better of idea of what is expected.

Check out the first grade board and join a first grade mail list - Proteacher has one and I am on another one as well. If you are interested in how to get on them, send me an email.