First Day of School Plan- Critical Reflection

While working on my first day of school plan it made me think more deeply on the parts that go into planning the first day of school as to set the stage for the rest of the school year. The first day of school sets the tone for how your students will view your classroom and you as their teacher. While working on this plan I wanted to create a schedule that sets both me and my students up for a productive school year. Creating a plan that establishes clear rules and expectations as well as starting to build relationships with my students was important to me. But it did cause me some issues in creating a plan that flowed smoothly and made sense.

The main roadblock I had was how much time did I needed to dedicate to each activity and how many rules and expectations need to be addressed on the first day of school. I was writing my plan for kindergarten, and they will need frequent reminders, so how often should I address the same expectation. During my first draft I had not provided enough time for certain activities such as introductions or group sharing on the carpet. When I went to revise, I gave more time for those activities as well as addressing mor expectations. While I had some challenges I think I had some parts that are strong. My plan allowed for a lot of get to know your activities and relationship bonding both between students and between the teachers.

Overall, this plan sets the stage for developing effective classroom management by addressing the expectations frequently and allowing for practice for students. My plan is strong and well structured, while also allowing for flexibility. This process has deepened my understanding of both the first day of school as well as writing a seating chart. This experience will help shape my teaching practice as I move forward in both my education class and as an educator.

  1. Greeting Plan (Door to Do Now)

As students arrive at the classroom, I will stand at the door greeting each student with a smile and introducing myself.

Example greeting:
“Good morning! I’m Miss. Jackson. I’m so happy you’re here today!”

Students will be given a name tag and directed to find their assigned seat, which will have their name written on it. A visual chart will be posted showing where each student sits to help them locate their spot.

Once seated, students will begin a simple coloring activity placed on their desk called “All About Me.” This helps them stay busy while everyone arrives and eases first-day nerves.

This greeting process begins building relationships and helps students understand the routine of entering the classroom.

 

  1. Bell Work Activity

The bell work activity will be the “All About Me” coloring sheet. Students will color pictures that show things they like (favorite color, favorite animal, favorite food).

Purpose of this activity:

  • Keeps students engaged right away
  • Allows students to practice following directions
  • Gives the teacher insight into students’ interests
  • Helps students feel comfortable on their first day

Students who finish early may draw a picture of themselves or their family on the back of the paper.

 

  1. Introduction Plan

Teacher Introduction

After students complete bell work, I will gather them on the classroom rug and introduce myself.

I will share:

  • My name (Miss. Jackson)
  • A few fun facts about me
  • Why I love teaching kindergarten
  • Something I like (favorite color, food, animal)

I will also show a few pictures about myself to make it more engaging.

Student Introductions

Students will sit in a circle and participate in a simple introduction activity called “Name and Favorite Color.”

Each student will say:
“My name is ______ and my favorite color is ______.”

This helps students learn each other's names and feel included.

 

  1. Procedures and Classroom Expectations

On the first day, I will introduce a few important classroom procedures. Since kindergarten students are young, these will be demonstrated and practiced.

Procedures taught:

  • How to sit on the carpet
  • How to raise a hand to speak
  • How to line up quietly
  • How to clean up materials
  • Bathroom procedures
  • Listening when the teacher is speaking

I will introduce classroom rules

Students will practice these expectations through role-playing and modeling.

  1. First Day Administrative Activities

Administrative tasks will include:

  • Attendance check
  • Collecting school supplies
  • Reviewing classroom schedule
  • Explaining lunch procedures
  • Explaining dismissal procedures

I will also send home a welcome letter with information for parents about classroom expectations and communication.

 

  1. Personal Preference Activity

We will complete a “Classroom Tour Scavenger Hunt.”

Students will explore the classroom and learn where important areas are:

  • Reading corner
  • Art center
  • Supply area
  • Bathroom
  • Cubby area

This helps students feel comfortable in the classroom environment.

  1. Assignment for the Next Day

Students will take home an “All About Me” family page.

Parents will help students:

  • Draw a picture of their family
  • Write the names of family members
  • Share something special about themselves

Students will bring this back the next day to share with the class.

 

  1. First Day Timeline

Morning

8:00 – 8:15
Arrival, greeting students at the door, bell work

8:15 – 8:30
Morning meeting and introductions

8:30 – 9:00
Read-aloud story about the first day of school

9:00 – 9:20
Teach classroom rules and expectations
Snack time and bathroom break


Classroom tour and scavenger hunt
Learning centers (blocks, drawing, reading)
Lunch

Afternoon

Recess
Story time
Practice lining up and dismissal routine
Review the day and pack backpacks