Welcome, ESL educators! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the real, unfiltered experience of your first two weeks back in the classroom. Whether you’re brand new to teaching English learners or a seasoned pro, this episode will help you walk into the school year with clarity, confidence, and calm.

💡 Before we get started—don’t forget to sign up for my FREE professional development training: 3 Simple & Powerful Secrets to a Successful School Year You’ll walk away with practical tools to reduce overwhelm, simplify planning, and build meaningful connections with your students—plus a PD certificate just for attending!

🗓️ Episode Summary

The first two weeks of school can feel like a whirlwind, especially for ESL teachers juggling new students, changing schedules, and multiple responsibilities. In this episode, I’m sharing a realistic, heart-centered look at what to expect during this time—so you can set the tone for a successful year ahead.

🔑 Key Takeaways: 🌟 Why the First Two Weeks Matter

• Sets the tone for classroom culture and relationships

• Helps students feel seen, safe, and supported

• Allows you to build structure before diving into academics

🗓️ Week 1 Focus

• Get to know students, families, and your teaching team

• Begin establishing routines to create consistency and safety

• Start (or prepare for) initial assessments

• Expect to feel overwhelmed—it’s normal!

• Focus on small wins to build momentum

🧘🏽 Tip: When things feel messy, pause and reset. Flexibility is your superpower.

📚 Week 2 Focus

• Introduce light academic content

• Continue building and reinforcing routines

• Strengthen student relationships and classroom community

• Adjust what’s not working—pivoting is part of the process

• Finalize scheduling and student files

🧩 Goal: By the end of Week 2, your class will begin to feel like a true learning community.

💬 Reflect & Take Action

If this episode helped you feel more grounded and prepared, take a small step today:

• Outline your classroom routines

• Set one goal for relationship-building

• Share this episode with a fellow ESL teacher who could use support

And remember—you are doing incredible work.

📌 Mentioned in This Episode:

✨ FREE PD Training: 3 Simple & Powerful Secrets to a Successful School Year ✔️ Includes PD Certificate ✔️ Actionable strategies for planning & mindset ✔️ Designed for ESL teachers like you!

🙌 Stay Connected

• Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode

• Follow @myadventuresinesl on Instagram

• Visit myadventuresinesl.com for more resources

🎉 You’ve got this—and I’m cheering you on every step of the way.

If you are looking for a community of dedicated and motivated educators, who support Language Learners, join us here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adventuresinesl