Make Your Own Summer School

Catch up on the latest tech trends, update licensure needs and more. Find out how to make the most of your vacation time.

Woman relaxing with book in a sunny field

by NEA Member Benefits

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The days of summer are precious and we all strive to make the most of them. Plan your own version of summer school to ensure you get the most out of your time! First, take a good look at the past year. Are there things you would like to know more about, changes you wish to make or ideas you didn’t get to explore?

Try one or more of the following ways to create your personal summer school initiative.

1. Take care of licensure needs. This is a great time of year to get caught up on your professional development. There’s no need to rearrange your vacation plans when you take an online course. You can learn and earn credits anywhere, anytime.

2. Get yourself back on track with your personal routines. If you haven’t had time to eat well, work out, socialize with friends or just read a novel or catch up on your favorite TV series, now is the time. Summer offers a great opportunity to start a routine and make it a habit so it is easier to continue when the school year starts up again. Try taking a local cooking class, join an 8-week boot camp or schedule time for a pot-luck gathering.

3. Plan to attend an education conference. Take advantage of education gatherings focused on your career and area(s) of expertise. Enjoy an event close to home or plan a trip to a national conference of your choice, with options including:

4. Be a “student of the world” to better guide the next generation. Although it sounds lofty, it’s true. Those active learning experiences you may have recommended to your students are often just as fun for you. When you aren’t responsible for a few dozen excited, young scholars, you will have time to explore, relax and enjoy your local exhibits, museums, and events. If your students are scheduled for a field trip, this is the best time to pre-plan so you don’t miss the important items, share the most interesting parts, and, of course, find the best break spots and all bathroom locations, too!

Most importantly, take the time to honor yourself and the work you do during the school year. Just one or two of the ideas above will help make your summer something to talk about and reflect upon when you return this fall—refreshed, renewed and ready to succeed in the important role you play in today’s education environment.