Throughout my 12 years at Success Academy, many experiences have shaped my approach as an educator. One stands out from when I was an associate teacher and still learning the ropes of classroom management. Now, the lessons I learned form the cornerstone of my classroom management coaching: Finding your own style and voice is essential for successful — and joyful — classroom management.

Recently, educators came together at the Robertson Center to conquer one of the universal challenges of the workplace: what to eat between the first bell and the last. Tracy Lockwood Beckerman, a registered dietitian and nutrition expert, shares her top tips for teachers on how to plan your meals and snacks so that you can feel healthy, stay energized, and treat yourself to the type of food that fuels your body and your soul.

Studies show that this time of year tends to bring on the “teacher blues”— a time when teachers might especially feel the weight of their workload, or even feel a little discouraged. We asked veteran teachers to share how they reboot when the days start getting shorter, and they offered up some valuable tips and tricks.

New teachers, we hope this advice from last year’s “Rookie of the Year” winners encourages and guides you during your first weeks and months in the classroom!

Giving my students work — not just school work, but actual tasks — was an incredible time-saver but it also had other unexpected and profoundly positive effects. It fostered a spirit of community among my scholars, increased their focus and investment, and most importantly, gave me the space and confidence to let them take ownership of their learning.