Welcome to the Classroom: Advice from Veteran Educators

As summer draws to a close, thousands of educators across Central Ohio are preparing classrooms, finalizing lesson plans and getting ready to welcome students through their doors. Soon hallways will be filled with chatter and excitement for the start of a new school year. Whether you’re a brand-new educator, a long-term sub transitioning into a full-time role or a career changer starting fresh, this moment can be both exciting and overwhelming.

You’re joining one of the most impactful professions in the world while becoming part of something bigger than yourself: a community of educators committed to empowering students and shaping futures. That’s because Teachers Create Teachers. They plant the first seeds that a career in education is more than a job; it’s a calling. It's also the belief that every great educator's journey begins with the influence of another. Somewhere along the way, someone inspired you to take this step. A teacher who believed in you. A mentor who guided you. Now, you’re stepping into that legacy and beginning to write your own.

Advice from Those Who’ve Been There

The first couple years can be a whirlwind of emotions: joy, challenge, discovery, and growth. That’s why we reached out to veteran educators across Central Ohio to share their experiences, encouragement, and wisdom. This is advice from those who have been in your shoes. Their notes are a reminder that while the work isn’t always easy, it is always worth it.

 

Was there a piece of advice, support, or encouragement you received early in your teaching career that made all the difference?

A piece of advice that I received early in my teaching career is to take everything with a grain of salt. Meaning, do not take anything that students say/do personally. - Sydney D., ESC Intervention Specialist

“We’ve got this!” said my teammates to me when I was struggling. Teaching is so much about collaboration and connecting with others. As teachers, we are a helpful people, but it doesn’t mean we won’t also need help. The worst thing you can do as a new teacher is isolate yourself and create an island. We’ve all been there and know the struggles firsthand, but we also know the amazing successes. - Kristalyn G., ESC Reading Specialist

One of the best pieces of advice I got during a training session was: “Build a good relationship before trying to teach or correct." That simple advice changed everything. It reminded me to focus on building trust and understanding with my students before anything else. Once they felt safe and seen, real learning began. - Tabassum R., ESC Intervention Specialist

 

Can you describe a moment in your career when you thought, “This is why I teach”?

I have these moments every year! This past school year I was able to initiate two of my students reintegrating into their home schools, and for me that is the goal! I love my students, but they deserve the opportunity to get their education with their non-disabled peers. I feel very proud of myself and my students in those moments! - Sydney D., ESC Intervention Specialist

The times I’ve heard the little chuckle in the back of a student’s throat that escapes when they are sounding out a new word and they suddenly realize they’ve figured it out. That giggle is why I teach. So many students have done it over the years and they don’t even realize it. Listen for it. It’s the best noise ever. - Kristalyn G., ESC Reading Specialist

One day, two of my quiet students who never spoke much raised their hands and shared a thoughtful answer. After class, they told me, “I finally feel like I belong.” That moment reminded me that creating a safe and welcoming space can change someone’s life. - Mhilu K., ESC Long Term Sub

Early in my career, when I was an aide, I was out with a child and told everything he could not do.... In 6 months, this student learned to walk, sign, feed himself, laugh and began potty training. When mom came in, to thank me, I told her all I did was believe he could. He did the rest. His progress was so great and being a part of his journey was an honor that inspired me to become a teacher. - Alicia Grady, ESC Intervention Specialist

One moment that stands out was when a student who rarely spoke looked me in the eye and quietly said, “I did it.” He had been working so hard on a task for weeks, and that small sentence meant everything. In that moment, I felt overwhelming joy—not just for his progress, but for his confidence. It reminded me that every small step is a big victory, and this is exactly why I teach. - Tabassum R., ESC Intervention Specialist

 

Is there a mindset or daily habit that has supported your wellness or helped you find joy in your work as an educator?

Give each day a clean slate! Do not let what happened yesterday affect what you do today. Also, do not take work home with you if you can help it. - Sydney D., ESC Intervention Specialist

Collaborating and connecting with my colleagues has been huge for me. - Kristalyn G., ESC Reading Specialist

I start every day by taking five deep breaths and saying one thing I'm thankful for. It keeps me calm and helps me focus on the good, even on tough days. - Mhilu K., ESC Long Term Sub

The mindset that’s helped me is "practicing patience with myself as much as with my students". I try to be patient with myself, just like I am with my students. I remind myself that learning takes time for everyone. When I am kind to myself, I don’t get too tired or upset. This helps me keep helping my students with care every day. - Tabassum R., ESC Intervention Specialist

 

Do you have a favorite quote or personal motto that’s helped guide you through the ups and downs of teaching?

Rita Pearson's quote keeps me motivated and focused on the students. “Every child deserves a champion-an adult who will never give up on them. Who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.” - Sydney D., ESC Intervention Specialist

“Be the teacher you needed when you were a kid.” That keeps me grounded and helps me lead with heart. - Mhilu K., ESC Long Term Sub

Ivan Welton Fitzwater: "The future of the world is in my classroom today." - Alicia Grady, ESC Intervention Specialist

My favorite quote is: If a flower doesn’t bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower. - Tabassum R., ESC Intervention Specialist

 

What’s one piece of advice you would give to new educators walking into their classroom this fall?

1. Figure out the layout in your room. (this is really important!)

2. Walk through your schedule and determine what your students will NEED to be successful throughout the day

3. Keep it simple, have FUN! - Sydney D., ESC Intervention Specialist

You’re not alone, and you don’t have to have all the answers. Just be kind, stay curious, and know that your effort matters more than you know. - Mhilu K., ESC Long Term Sub

"Get to know your students as people first—understand their strengths, interests, and challenges before focusing on the lessons.” Building strong relationships creates trust and makes teaching much more effective. - Tabassum R., ESC Intervention Specialist

 

How to Stay Connected and Inspired

As the year goes on, we encourage you to revisit these words. Save the advice that resonates with you most. Print it. Post it. Pass it along to a colleague who might need a boost!

Here are a few ways you can stay connected and feel supported throughout your first year:

• Connect with Colleagues: Build relationships with fellow educators who can listen, laugh, and lift you up.
• Celebrate small wins: Every lightbulb moment, kind note, or breakthrough counts!
• Take care of yourself: Your wellness is essential to your effectiveness. Make sure to rest, reflect, and recharge!
• Use your resources: The ESC offers ongoing professional development, mentorship opportunities, and regional networks to help you grow.

Class is Now in Session

To every new educator reading this: welcome! We’re so glad you’re here. The path ahead won’t be perfect, but it will be powerful. With every lesson you teach, every student you reach, and every challenge you overcome, you are building something remarkable! From all of us at the ESC, and those who have come before you, thank you for showing up. And remember: Teachers Create Teachers. Get ready to inspire the next generation!