"This resource is extremely timely and well thought out. Wouldn′t it be great if all principals gave their new hires this book along with their classroom keys?"
—Andrea Ziembia, Fifth-Grade Teacher, Morton Elementary School, Hammond, IN

"An indispensable companion for any new teacher, this book gives excellent advice for avoiding many hurdles and pitfalls and focusing on what′s important—becoming outstanding teachers of young children."
—Carol A. Tateishi, Director
Bay Area Writing Project, University of California at Berkeley

"The book′s lists, charts, tables, diagrams, and the narrative are amazingly helpful and insightful. This is more than a survival book; it is inspirational and affirming."
—Mary Ann Sinkkonen, Assistant Professor
Dominican University of California

Everything a new elementary teacher needs for getting started is right here!

This comprehensive guide from veteran educators gives first-year teachers a multitude of classroom-tested strategies for those critical first days of school. Written in a reassuring tone, this authoritative handbook walks you through setting up your classroom, managing behavior, planning lessons, assessing students′ performance, and partnering with families. Thoroughly updated to meet the needs of today′s classrooms, this new edition includes the latest tips on:

Teachers will find resources, samples, templates, homework contracts, strategies, checklists, and proven solutions to everyday challenges. Rest assured that you are not alone, and you will succeed!