Spring break isn’t just a time for students and teachers to relax—it’s also a golden opportunity to reset your classroom and bring fresh energy into the rest of the school year. Whether your break is a week or longer, taking intentional steps to refresh your classroom environment, lessons, and mindset can make a huge difference when students return.
Declutter Your Classroom
A clutter-free space fosters a focused and positive learning environment. Use this time to clear out old papers, organize supplies, and rethink your classroom layout. Could a small furniture rearrangement boost engagement? Do you need to reorganize materials? Walking into a clean, refreshed space can set the tone for a productive final stretch of the year.
Refresh Your Classroom
Here are a few free and low-cost ways to refresh your classroom, shared with you by American Board Graduates!
- “To shake off those winter blues and welcome spring, I like to add bright and pastel color decor that invite happy feelings. Additionally, I’ll put up end-of-the-year quotes. This helps students and teachers know it has been a great year and all the hard work to get to the next school level has paid off.” – Waymon Tatum, Wisconsin Teacher
- “To shake off the winter doldrums and revitalize the classroom, I’m planning a ‘Spring into Learning’ project. We’ll transform our bulletin boards with vibrant student artwork depicting spring themes, and we’ll also have an outdoor reading day to enjoy the warmer weather.” – Jonathan Wactor, Ohio Teacher
- A fast and easy way to transform and refresh a classroom is to, “add plants and open up windows for some fresh air.” – Hailee Sanford, Wisconsin Teacher
Revamp Lessons and Activities
Spring is the perfect time to introduce new activities that rekindle enthusiasm for learning. No need to reinvent the wheel. Instead, look at your upcoming units and see where you can add project-based learning, interactive technology, or hands-on experiences. This will make lessons more engaging for students. A fresh approach can spark curiosity and keep students motivated through the last months of school.
Ask for Community Participation
We recognize that many teachers must spend their own money on classroom supplies. Consider setting up an Amazon Teacher Wish List and sharing it with your community. Tips on doing so are available here. Some of our teacher graduates recently asked for items like durable classroom headphones, flexible seating options, and new books. You might be surprised how easily community members can fulfill these wishes.
Check In with Students
Spring break provides a mental reset for students, too. When they return, take time to check in on their well-being and academic progress. Consider quick reflection activities or goal-setting exercises to help them refocus and take ownership of their learning.
Reignite Your Passion
Teachers work hard all year, and spring break is a chance to refuel. Whether it’s reading a new book, attending a professional development session, or simply resting, taking care of yourself ensures you return energized and ready to inspire.
If you’re a currently licensed teacher and you’ve considered adding a certification area, look into American Board. The online and affordable program makes additional certificate areas as easy as passing one test (study materials provided). Spring break could serve as your study opportunity.
Lastly, if you’re not teaching now but you’ve already dreamed of leading a classroom, American Board is here to help. Visit our website to learn more about certification in your state.
