Starting a new job in a school can be an exciting yet challenging experience. The first three months are critical in setting the tone for your job and establishing relationships with colleagues, students, and school leadership. Whether you’re new to working in school or transitioning to a new position, the first 90 days are a pivotal time to understand your responsibilities, integrate into the school culture, and demonstrate your value to the school community.
In this article, we’ll provide a sample roadmap for navigating your first 90 days of work in a school job, offering tips on how to build relationships, establish a solid foundation, and contribute meaningfully to the school community at large.
Understand the School’s Mission and Culture
In your first few days, take the time to re-familiarize yourself with the school’s mission, core values, and culture. Every school has its own unique environment, and understanding this early on will help you align with the broader goals and expectations.
- Review the school’s mission statement: This will give you insight into the school’s core values, objectives, and the kind of environment they strive to create.
- Observe the school culture: Pay attention to how staff members communicate with each other, interact with students, and manage classroom activities. Identifying and nderstanding the unwritten social and cultural norms of the school will help you adapt more quickly.
- Explore the school’s social media accounts: Take a moment to browse through the school’s social media pages. These accounts usually highlight key events, school activities, and community involvement, providing a glimpse into the school community.
- Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask colleagues about the school’s history, traditions, or expectations. Your openness to learning about the school will reflect positively on you.
Build Relationships with Your Colleagues
Building strong relationships with colleagues can take time, but it is essential for your success. Your ability to work as a team and collaborate effectively will impact your overall experience and success in the role, as well as student outcomes.
- Introduce yourself to team members: Start by introducing yourself to fellow team members and other staff across the school; consider creating and practicing an elevator pitch. Being approachable and open to conversations will help you along the way.
- Seek a mentor or buddy: Even if your school has a formal mentorship program, identify a colleague or two that can help guide you through the school’s policies, processes, and culture. Having someone to lean on for advice and support can help you settle in more easily.
- Communicate openly: Regular communication with team members fosters trust and collaboration. Be proactive about checking in with colleagues, and ask for feedback when necessary and/or appropriate.
- Participate in school activities: Engage in school events, staff meetings, and informal gatherings. Being present and involved in the community will help you integrate into the school’s culture and provide opportunities to connect with others people you may not usually interact with.
Master the Fundamentals of Your Job
While it’s important to build relationships and integrate into the school culture, your first 90 days should also be focused on mastering the basics of your job. Take time to understand your responsibilities and develop a plan to excel.
- Clarify expectations: Ensure that you clearly understand what’s expected of you in terms of tasks, responsibilities, and goals. Meet with your supervisor to discuss job expectations, deadlines, and key priorities for your first three months.
- Break down your tasks: If your job involves multiple responsibilities, break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. Prioritize key tasks and focus on becoming efficient at each.
- Learn the tools and systems: Whether it’s an online student management system, software for lesson planning, or communication tools, make sure you are comfortable using the tools that are critical to your role. Ask if there are training opportunities, and take full advantage of them.
Contribute to the School’s Success
Your ability to demonstrate value in the first 90 days will make a lasting impression. Take the initiative and find ways to contribute meaningfully to the school’s mission and day-to-day operations.
- Volunteer for extra tasks: Volunteering for additional tasks or helping out with school events shows your dedication and commitment to the team. It can also give you more opportunities to meet colleagues and demonstrate your skills.
- Offer fresh perspectives: While it’s important to respect existing procedures, your fresh perspective can be valuable. If you identify areas that could be improved, bring them up with your supervisor in a constructive and thoughtful manner.
- Be proactive in problem-solving: If you encounter challenges, demonstrate a willingness to find solutions. Whether it’s a technical issue, a classroom management concern, or an administrative task, your ability to problem-solve can enhance your reputation.
Seek Feedback and Adjust as Necessary
The first 90 days are also an opportunity to assess how well you’re integrating into the job and the school community. Seeking feedback from the right people regularly will help you identify areas for improvement and refine your approach.
- Request regular feedback: Early feedback is essential for job and personal growth. Ask your supervisor and trusted colleagues for input on your performance—this can help you understand what you’re doing well and where there might be room for improvement.
- Stay open to constructive criticism: Don’t take criticism personally. Instead, use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Use feedback as a tool to adjust your strategies and identify ways to improve your performance.
- Reflect on your experiences: Take the time to reflect on your experiences regularly. This could be through journaling or having informal check-ins with your mentor or buddy. Reflecting on what’s working well—and what isn’t—will help you identify areas for potential growth.
Demonstrate Your Passion for the Job
Show your passion for education and your role within the school. Your enthusiasm can inspire those around you and help to build your reputation as someone committed to the school’s mission and goals.
- Engage with students: Whether your role is instructional or non-instructional, engage positively with students where appropriate. Show them that you care about their learning and well-being. Students notice when staff members are genuinely passionate and supportive.
- Align with the school’s values: Show how your work reflects the school’s mission and values. If you’re focused on helping students succeed, supporting fellow staff members, or ensuring the smooth operation of school systems, your commitment will show through your actions.
- Stay engaged with professional development: Take advantage of any professional development opportunities that are offered. This will not only improve your skills but will also demonstrate your commitment to continual improvement and your enthusiasm for the role.
Establish Long-Term Goals
As you move through your first 90 days, it’s essential to begin thinking about your long-term goals within the school. Having a clear vision for your growth will help you stay focused and motivated.
- Set personal and professional goals: Think about where you want to be in six months or a year. Are there new skills that you want to acquire? Do you hope to take on more responsibility? Setting goals can help you remain positive, proactive, and focused on growth.
- Discuss your goals with your supervisor: Once you’ve identified your goals, share them with your supervisor and ask for their advice on achieving them. This will help them understand your aspirations and align future projects with your career development.
In Conclusion
The first 90 days in a school job are critical in setting the stage for a successful, and fulfilling experience with this employer. By focusing on building strong relationships, seeking mastery in your job, contributing meaningfully to the school’s success, seeking actionable feedback, and establishing long-term goals, you’ll be well on your way to making a lasting impact.
Approach these first three months with curiosity, professionalism, and a willingness to learn and grow. By doing so, you’ll not only demonstrate your value to the school community at large but also position yourself for long-term success in your career in schools.
