Skip Navigation
We use cookies to offer you a better browsing experience, provide ads, analyze site traffic, and personalize content. If you continue to use this site, you consent to our use of cookies.
Advice

30 Questions to Ask During the First Days of School

Make Your Life Easier by Learning School Procedures Early On
Published: June 19, 2020

To make your first few months easier, get the answers to these questions by the end of the first two weeks. Put the information in a place where you can easily retrieve it.

  1. Where and how do I secure supplies (chalk, erasers, paper, etc.)?
  2. How do I check out regular and supplemental texts?
  3. What are the procedures for use of audiovisual equipment?
  4. How do I make arrangements for a field trip?
  5. How do I sign my class up for the library?
  6. How do I order films?
  7. What are the procedures for taking a class to an assembly?
  8. When am I responsible for locking my room?
  9. What machines are available for me to use (copier, computer, VCR, laminator, etc.)?
  10. Where can I get free and inexpensive materials?
  11. With whom should I consult as I make decisions on the use of supplemental materials?
  12. What are the attendance accounting procedures for students, and what are my responsibilities in attendance recordkeeping?
  13. What do I do with any money I collect?
  14. What are the grading guidelines for the school system? What documentation must I provide?
  15. How do I fill out an interim report?
  16. To whom do I report serious problems with a student's health or behavior?
  17. What student records must I maintain in cumulative folders?
  18. What procedures do other teachers in my school follow for contacting parents by letter or phone?
  19. What should I expect from a parent conference?
  20. What should I do if I must leave my room during class?
  21. What should I do in case of a medical emergency in my classroom?
  22. How do I handle a fight between students?
  23. How do I report a disciplinary problem?
  24. How do I arrange for a substitute?
  25. How do I apply for personal, professional, vacation, or sick leave?
  26. What is my salary and what deductions are taken?
  27. Are there any unwritten rules for teachers in my school?
  28. What is my personnel file and what is in it?
  29. Where do I go if I am having trouble?
  30. How do I know if I am doing a good job?

Source: Tools for Success, A Handbook for First Year Teachers' Professional Growth. The North Carolina Association of Educators.

Are you an affiliate?

Jump to updates, opportunities, and resources for NEA state and local affiliates.
man reading news on phone

We Want to Hear from You

Do you have a story to share? Or some feedback for the NEA Today team? Click on the link below to contact us.
National Education Association

Great public schools for every student

The National Education Association (NEA), the nation's largest professional employee organization, is committed to advancing the cause of public education. NEA's 3 million members work at every level of education—from pre-school to university graduate programs. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States.