Finally, after a few years of subbing and teaching private lessons, I have begun to read the much-lauded book “The First Days of School” (Wong) Thus far it has been an excellent read. It stresses the importance of the first week of school in determining a new teacher’s long-term success and provides tips and tools to make a teacher successful, and encourages teachers to always seek more information to improve themselves. The myriad of tips includes reading, attending workshops, analyzing statistics, and collaborating with colleagues. The authors suggest reading books and educator journals as well, within your field and in the broader realm of education. I find it fascinating, as does the author, that teachers expect their students to do something that they themselves often neglect to do: learn! The sections include content on teacher expectations, classroom management, lesson mastery, and being a professional. Below are listed some resources that the book suggests, as well as others that have been recommended to me.
The First Days of School by Harry K. Wong and Rosemary T. Wong
Discipline Survival Kit for the Secondary Teacher by J.G. Thompson
Private Voice Studio Handbook by Joann Frey Boytim
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey