As students across Weyburn enjoy their final long weekend of summer, teachers have already been hard at work for a week, preparing for the start of classes this coming Tuesday.
For Sean Galvin, a Grade 6 teacher at St. Michael School, this preparation week is an essential time to shift from summer relaxation back to a school-year mindset.
“It starts with getting back into our teaching routine,” Galvin explained. “We've had two months off of being on our own time, sleeping in a little bit, and then we've got to figure out, we've got to get ready a little bit earlier, and get ourselves prepared that way.”
The week is about more than just personal adjustment. It's a critical time for professional collaboration and planning. Galvin noted that teachers spend the week reconnecting with staff members and team teachers, meeting with administrators about any special concerns for the year, and attending division meetings to get familiar with new expectations.
A significant part of the week is spent inside the classroom itself. Galvin said it involves a lot of decorating, cleanup, and styling to create a welcoming environment for students.
“Creating a seating plan, and just getting our room set up the way we kind of want to set it up for the year, and just get that positive, energetic vibe ready for the kids, so that they, on the first day, we can match their excitement level as well,” he said.
Events like the ‘welcome back night’, where students can drop off their school supplies early, are a key part of the process. With 15 years of teaching experience, Galvin has a routine for the evening that helps channel the kids' energy.
“We have an introductory slide that we'll post on the intro night, and have them introduce their parents, and just share in a part of their excitement,” Galvin shared. “That's the most important part for me. That's how I get myself ready to go.”
When asked what he's most looking forward to, Galvin's answer was immediate.
“Same as any year for me,” he said. “It's a new group of kids ready and excited to learn.”
This year also brings a new and exciting experience for Galvin personally, as he will be a mentor teacher for the first time, welcoming an intern from the University of Regina's Faculty of Education.
“It's a really good way for me to stay young and to see what new and exciting ways some of the students are learning to teach,” he said.
As the week wraps up, Galvin shared a message for his colleagues across the region.
“I wish every other teacher in Weyburn - Holy Family and Southeast - good luck this year, and hope everybody has a really good, successful year.”