Spring is here! Buds are sprouting, leaves are starting to grow back on the trees. Renewal is in the air.
We’re settling back into routines after spring break—and if your experience was anything like ours, the weather couldn’t quite make up its mind. We saw a little bit of everything, and while temperatures dipped below freezing at one point, at least it didn’t snow. Instead, we’ve entered what can only be described as mud season.
And just like the weather, this time of year in the classroom can feel a bit unpredictable.
Tapping in to the “Back-to-School” Energy—But Not Quite
Coming back from break often brings a renewed sense of energy. It almost feels like the start of a new school year. Students return a bit refreshed, and there’s a noticeable, if brief, boost in motivation.
The difference, of course, is that we don’t have the benefit of a clean slate. We do, however, have the benefit of students knowing our classroom routines, even if some reteaching is in order.
That’s what makes this moment so important. That renewed drive to learn is real—but fleeting. The challenge is to recognize it and capitalize on it while it lasts.
Change the Scenery
One way to harness that energy is by breaking out of routine. If the weather cooperates, consider taking your class outside.
For example, during an end-of-year geometry unit on trigonometry, having students measure the height of trees or buildings can bring concepts to life. This is something I used to do regularly before changing schools and curriculum. The math department had a class set of clinometers like these to use to measure angle of elevation but there are numerous tutorials online of how to make them. Applying math in a tangible way not only deepens understanding but also increases engagement.
Sometimes, a simple change in environment can make all the difference.
Rethink How Content Is Delivered
When heading outdoors isn’t an option, either because of the weather or other logistical issues, changing how material is presented can still have a big impact.
Instead of defaulting to notes and lectures, try:
- Discovery-based activities
- Hands-on manipulatives (like algebra tiles or AngLegs)
- Review games (especially those that involve movement)
End-of-year topics often lend themselves naturally to more interactive approaches. Even small changes—like getting students out of their seats—can re-energize learning.
Prioritizing What Matters Most
This time of year also brings increased focus on state testing, which often means balancing review with new content. With limited time left, prioritization becomes critical.
So the question becomes: What matters most?
- Which concepts are truly foundational?
- What knowledge will students carry forward into future courses?
- What skills have lasting value beyond the test?
State assessments can offer some guidance, but they shouldn’t be the only measure of importance.
Inevitably, we have to make choices. Some topics will get more attention, while others may need to take a back seat.
What Are You Choosing?
As the school year winds down, every educator is making these decisions in their own way.
What are you prioritizing in these final weeks?
What are you choosing to leave behind?
And how are you deciding?
The end of the year may feel compressed, but it’s also full of opportunity—if we’re intentional about how we use it.