Are you feeling the excitement? The end-of-year excitement? I’m sharing eight tips on how to wrap up a successful school year. There are still so many things to complete . . . projects, review work, grades, end-of-the-year activities, and reflecting on the current year to name a few.

How are you feeling about ending the school year? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Not sure where to start? Are you thinking . . . how am I going to get “this” all done? I have a million plus one “things” that still need to get done? What about those students who need extra support throughout the summer? What about those students who need support with community resources? The list of questions continues. Are these questions keeping you up at night?

Like you, I know there is A LOT to do before the last day arrives. So, my friend, I want to offer some support and ideas to help you overcome the end-of-year struggles. As you begin winding down the school year and start thinking about the next school year, consider these eight tips. You will enjoy a full summer relaxing and renewing yourself. Ahhhh!!!

This post may contain affiliate links, and I may earn compensation when you click on the links at no additional cost to you.

How to Wrap up the End of Year!

The easiest way I’ve found to do wrap up the school year is making a list of what needs to be done, add due dates, and prioritize. Here are eight quick tips for you that have helped me be successful. Using these end-of-year tips will help you and your kiddos end the year on a successful, positive note.

Tip #1

Make a list: Write down in ONE space (paper/google doc/calendar) what is happening during these last few weeks of school. It is important to keep this document handy, as you will be making adjustments to what needs to be done as things come up.

My school has a “gazillion” events happening that last week of school: End of year (EOY) Family BBQ, Awards Assembly, Field Day, Field Trips, and EOY Celebrations. Add in the “EOY teacher checklist”, and yep, it’s crazy busy!! Remember to start with a plan, but leave room for flexibility.

Tip #4

Reflecting: While I work through my list, I also make notes about what I need to do for next year. What worked out great, what do I need to tweak, what do I need to revamp for next year?

I think big picture: classroom management, procedures, projects, personalized learning, supplemental learning, online learning, supplies, organization, seating, room

arrangements . . . etc. I spend a few days of quiet time in my classroom thinking about each of these areas, and again, begin writing a list. To accomplish this task, I use a Google doc and calendar to keep myself organized and enjoy easy access everywhere. Finally, I review my initial reflections over the summer when I have more time to dive deep in my reflection.

Tip #5

Student & Parent Input: As I engage in the reflecting stage, I always ask students and parents for their input. What went well, what needs improvement, what do we need more of, less of, what would students like to learn next year . . . etc.

This piece of my reflection is very important. I have had great feedback from students and parents, which in turn not only supports my instruction, but helps me provide a better program for my future students.

Tip #6

Wrapping UP: By this time, we are down to a week or less in the school year. My list is nearly complete (even my add-ons), I have input forms and may or may not have had time to review them, grades are done, and my goal is to keep the day as routine as possible, but with lots of fun! This is that crazy, busy week I told you about, so I want my list to be nearly done!

These are also the last few days that we get to spend together. You’ll find that student behaviors/emotions can be all over the place. While students are excited to have NO SCHOOL for 2 1/2 months, many will go home with nothing to do. Soon they will begin complaining and wishing they were back in school. Of course, other students will be visiting families, going camping, fishing, or other vacation destinations. Listen to your kiddos this last week. They may need reassurance that their summer break will be fun and relaxing, they will see their friends and YOU in the fall, and you’re excited to hear about their adventures.

Tip #7

Summer PD: My district always holds a summer academy for teachers. This is an opportunity for teachers to learn, earn recertification credits, and/or engage in book clubs or study groups.

Think about what skills you want to enhance or even learn. How are your literacy, math, and content instructional skills, strategies, and knowledge? Are you meeting the needs of all learners? How is classroom management? Oftentimes, many of the courses allow opportunities to plan for the upcoming school year. That’s what I call a sweet BONUS!

Tip #8

Self Reflection & PD: At this point, school has been out for 1, maybe 2 weeks. I’ve had time to chill and am ready to begin thinking about next year. I always pull out my reflection notes (step 5) and review student/parent input data (step 6). Then I think about the professional development I’ve had throughout the year. I start thinking about how I want next year to go. If there is a certain instructional area I want to beef up, I am reading text, viewing videos, or following my favorite teachers’ blogs or Instagram accounts. I always take time to read some children’s literature that I may use for class reads or book clubs.

After I take some time for self-reflection and self PD, of course taking notes, I’m now ready to take a well-deserved break and have fun vacationing!

Wellness Resources to Wrap Up the Year

I know how busy you are and THIS is the reason I created this fun, “spa-like” resource. This is the perfect gift to your colleagues and parents OR even a little self-indulgence (it’s quite alright!!). You have my permission!! 😉

My goal in this resource is to provide you with a gift ready to print and give. Everyone deserves to have some “self-indulgence” time AND educators don’t need to spend more time creating. I’ve got you!! Enjoy!!

Get This Resource Today

How to Wrap Up the End of Year with Family Engagement

Are you looking for a family engagement resource? Look no further!! This editable Family Engagement resource was specifically designed for English Learners focusing on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills while incorporating standards in reading, writing, math, social studies, science, technology, and the arts.

Family Engagement Resource

This resource is also perfect for any student in general education, special education, migrant education, and students who are language deficient. The feedback I received from students and parents was evidence of the Bubbles Family Engagement success!

Related Resources on How to Wrap Up the Year

Besides teachers taking the time to reflect upon the school year, it is important to have some resources available for students and parents as they plan for summer vacation.

Fun and Affordable Ways to Keep Learning Alive this Summer

School is Out for Summer, Now What?

In this video, I share the story, How to Make Bubbles. Enjoy this read-aloud story about making bubbles. Then gather your materials, make bubbles, and have some fun!

If you’d like to order your own Bubble book, you can do that, too! I also share some other fun books to read and learn about bubbles! This is a great opportunity to engage families in fun, summer learning opportunities.

How to Wrap Up the Year: Final Thoughts

Ending the school year can be stressful, but if you follow these tips, use these resources, and plan ahead, you’ll be sure to have a great year-end celebration!! Bonus ~ you’ll also have the seeds for a fabulous start to a new year!! Happy Summer!!!

Follow and Share on Social Media!